What is the purpose of an instructional directive?

• A. Clarifies the medical interventions the client wants to omit or refuse
• B. Names a decision-maker
• C. Provides informed consent for procedures
• D. Lists medications to be given in emergencies

Answer: (A)

An instructional directive serves to document the client’s wishes about which medical interventions they want to omit or refuse. It records preferences so that, if the client becomes unable to communicate, healthcare providers know which treatments the patient does not want, helping to preserve autonomy and guide decisions consistent with the patient’s values.

This is different from naming a decision-maker (that’s a durable power of attorney for health care) and from giving informed consent (consent is about agreeing to procedures when the patient is able). It also isn’t a list of medications to be given in emergencies, which would be part of treatment orders rather than a directive about what to withhold.