What Are Advance Healthcare Directives?
Advance healthcare directives are legal documents that let you decide and communicate your medical care preferences for situations when you can’t speak for yourself. These instructions help your loved ones and doctors honor your wishes and avoid confusion or conflict in a crisis. At Jung Disability and Injury Advocates, we guide Charleston and South Carolina families through preparing these vital documents, so your voice is heard when it matters most.
Types of Advance Healthcare Directives in South Carolina
Living Will (Advance Directive)
A Living Will (also called an Advance Directive) lets you specify what life-sustaining treatments you do or do not want if you’re terminally ill or permanently unconscious. Common choices include instructions about:
- Feeding tubes or IV nutrition
- Use of ventilators or breathing machines
- Dialysis or blood transfusions
- Pain management and comfort care
South Carolina’s Death with Dignity Act governs living wills and requires the form to be signed by two witnesses. Our firm ensures your document meets state requirements and truly reflects your wishes.
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order
A DNR order tells healthcare providers not to perform CPR or attempt to restart your heart or breathing if they stop. In South Carolina, DNR orders are often used by people with serious illnesses or those who want to avoid aggressive interventions at the end of life. DNR forms must be signed by a physician and, if used outside a hospital, require a special state-approved form recognized by EMS.
Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order
A DNI order instructs doctors not to place a breathing tube (intubation) if you stop breathing. People sometimes choose a DNI to avoid being placed on a ventilator, especially if there’s little hope of recovery. It’s important to have this choice clearly stated in writing, as emergency care will otherwise follow standard protocols.
Healthcare Power of Attorney
A Healthcare Power of Attorney lets you name a trusted person (“agent” or “proxy”) to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This agent can speak with doctors, consent to or refuse treatment, and advocate for your wishes. This document is separate from financial power of attorney and works together with your Living Will.
Why Include Advance Directives in Your Estate Plan?
- Ensures your medical wishes are honored in any situation
- Prevents family conflict or confusion in emergencies
- Provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones
- Lets you choose trusted advocates for healthcare decisions
Advance directives are a critical part of comprehensive estate planning. See our Estate Planning page for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a living will and healthcare power of attorney in SC?
A living will gives specific instructions about your care; a healthcare power of attorney appoints someone to make broader medical decisions for you.
How do I set up a DNR in South Carolina?
Ask your doctor to complete a DNR order. For EMS recognition, use the SC state-approved DNR form. Our firm can help you get the right paperwork.
Do I need a healthcare proxy if I have a living will?
Yes—having both covers more situations. Your proxy can handle decisions not covered in the living will.
Does a DNR expire?
In South Carolina, a DNR order stays valid until you revoke it. It’s wise to review your advance directives regularly.