Understanding Living Wills: A Guide for Nurses

As a nurse, it is important to understand the ethical and legal implications of witnessing legal documents for patients, such as living wills. When a client asks a nurse to witness the signature on a living will, it puts the nurse in a potentially compromising position.

Nurses should always prioritize the best interests of their patients and maintain a professional boundary. By declining to sign the will, the nurse upholds the principles of ethical practice and avoids any potential conflicts of interest.

It is advisable for the client to seek an impartial witness, such as a notary public or an attorney, to sign their living will. This ensures that the document is legally binding and free from any perceived biases.