psychiatric advance directive
Legal document specifying treatment preferences and appointing decision-makers for future psychiatric emergencies when patient lacks capacity.
Full Definition
A legal instrument allowing individuals to document their preferences for psychiatric treatment in advance of mental health crises when they may lack decision-making capacity. These directives can specify preferred medications, treatment facilities, emergency contacts, and treatment refusals. They may also designate a psychiatric healthcare proxy to make decisions during emergencies. Emergency psychiatry teams must review existing psychiatric advance directives before implementing treatment plans, though life-threatening situations may override some directive provisions. Documentation must note directive existence and compliance status.
Usage
Usage note: Lowercase unless referring to a specific document title; distinguish from general medical advance directives.
In Context
- "The patient's psychiatric advance directive specifically refuses haloperidol but permits olanzapine for agitation." — Treatment planning note
- "Review the psychiatric advance directive database before initiating involuntary treatment." — Clinical protocol