What is an Advance Care Plan?
The Advance Care Plan (ACP) is a written document that indicates your preferences for future medical care should you become very sick and unable to communicate.
Importance of an Advance Care Plan
Putting your desired medical plan in writing helps you to communicate your wishes accurately to your healthcare providers and loved ones so that they can respect your wishes in the event that you cannot speak for yourself.
Even if there is no written document, it is important to let your family, healthcare providers and other caregivers know your wishes about your future medical care.
Getting Started on an Advance Care Plan
Talk to your doctors or nurses about your heart condition. It is important to know and understand your condition well so that you know what might be involved in your future care.
What to Do with your Advance Care Plan
Make copies of your Advance Care Plan. Bring them along with you if you need to have treatment in a hospital so that the healthcare team treating you knows your preferences.
Changing Your Mind
You can always change your choice for your future medical care, as long as you are still mentally alert and able to think. It is always important to let your family members and healthcare team know when you change your mind so that they can follow your wishes.
When Should I Contact My Case/Care Manager, Nurse or Doctor?
Contact your case/care manager, nurse or doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, or if these symptoms worsen:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Chest pain
- Fainting or dizzy spells
- Palpitations (sensation of the heart beating fast or abnormally)
- Swelling in feet, ankles or abdomen
- Sudden weight gain of more than 1kg per day for 3 days
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