What is a living will?

A living will is a document that a person creates to inform their family and health care providers about their wishes regarding end-of-life care and medical treatment. It helps individuals make decisions regarding their care and treatment before they become incapacitated due to illness or injury. This document is recognized in Nevada and is also referred to as an advance healthcare directive. The living will becomes effective if the person becomes unable to make decisions for themselves due to illness, injury, dementia, or other incapacity. A living will typically consists of two parts. The first part is the statement of wishes that outlines the individual’s wishes for end-of-life care and medical treatment. This includes preferences regarding the use of life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial respiration, antibiotics, or dialysis. The second part names a health care agent or proxy which is someone who is authorized to make medical decisions for the individual if they become incapacitated. It is important to note that a living will is not legally binding in Nevada unless it is signed by two witnesses or notarized. Furthermore, the wishes outlined in the living will do not necessarily apply to every situation and will be discussed between the patient, the health care agent, and the health care providers. Additionally, the living will is only effective in Nevada and is not legally valid in other states.

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