If a patient presents an outdated advance directive from another state, what is the best action?

The best course of action in this scenario is to advise the patient to speak with the appropriate department. This is important because advance directives can vary significantly from state to state, and it's crucial to ensure that any directives are compliant with local laws and regulations. By consulting with a designated department, such as a legal or patient advocacy department, the patient can receive guidance on whether the outdated directive can still be honored or if a new directive is necessary to ensure their wishes are respected according to the laws of the current state.

Providing support for the patient to navigate these legal complexities demonstrates a commitment to upholding their rights and preferences in healthcare decisions. Encouraging direct communication with the appropriate authorities can help clarify the patient's options and ensure that their advance directives are properly recognized.