Table 4.

Common differences between traditional advance directives and preparedness plans in patients receiving left ventricular assist devices as destination therapy

Measure to be considered	Advance Directive	Preparedness Plan
Antibiotics. long term role	+	++
Artificial nutrition	+	++
Blood transfusions	+	++
Goals and expectations	−	++
Hemodialysis	+	++
Hydration	+	++
Intracranial hemorrhage	−	++
LVAD failure	−	++
LVAD infection	−	++
Organ donation	++	++
Mechanical ventilation	++	++
Post-operative plans for rehabilitation	−	++
Power of Attorney appointed	++	++
Psychosocial assessment	−	++
Review of perioperative morbidity and mortality	−	++
Social dynamics reviewed	−	++
Spiritual and/or religious preferences	++	++
Stroke	−	++

Notation: “−” not generally found in document; “+” may be found in document, “++” often found in document.

Data from Swetz KM, Freeman MR, AbouEzzeddine OF, et al. Palliative medicine consultation for preparedness planning in patients receiving left ventricular assist devices as destination therapy. Mayo Clin Proc. Jun 2011;86(6):493–500.