What is assured once an adult patient executes a living will?
1. The directions of the document will be followed, even if the patient makes a verbal request that directly contradicts the provisions of the document.
2. The document is legally binding and all health care providers will abide by its provisions.
3. In order to revoke the document, the patient must sign a subsequent living will.
4. The health care providers who abide by the document cannot be charged with criminal negligence associated with the patient's death.
4
Rationale: The patient's expressed wishes always take precedence over the document, and the patient can verbally revoke the living will. The living will allows for the provider to honor the wishes of the patient without the risk of criminal negligence. However, the presence of a living will does not always mean it will be followed by all health care providers.
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