Antibiotics

Patients appropriate for MOLST may wish to be treated with antibiotics or not, based on their current health status, prognosis and goals for care.

MOLST

The 2018 DOH MOLST Form provides for three patient preferences:

• Do not use antibiotics. Use other comfort measures to relieve symptoms.
• Determine use or limitation of antibiotics when infection occurs.
• Use antibiotics to treat infections, if medically indicated.

Review and Renew

Preferences may change as the patient’s health status and prognosis worsen over time.

Patients appropriate for MOLST may wish to change their preferences for antibiotics during the COVID-19 crisis.

For patients who wish to be hospitalized or treated in place, antibiotics may be desired, based on evolving research.

It is important to make time to review and renew MOLST now. The discussion must be patient-centered, honest and compassionate, considering the patient’s medical condition, health status, prognosis and goals for care.

Effective communication skills are essential. Read more about how to have this crucial conversation.