Surrogate Decision-Making: How to Promote Best Outcomes in Difficult Times

Respect for patient autonomy is highly valued in American society and in nursing professional codes of ethics. US law protects the right of patients to self-determination in health care decisions. Advanced practice registered nurses must be able to identify patients who are not competent to make these decisions and the surrogates who will make decisions in their place. Advance planning with patients and providing optimal support for their surrogates are part of individualized, total-patient care and key to promoting best outcomes for patients and their families who are experiencing extremely difficult choices and significant life transitions.