Homepage Valid Do Not Resuscitate Order Form
Content Overview

When it comes to making critical healthcare decisions, a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form plays a vital role in ensuring that an individual's wishes are respected during a medical emergency. This document serves as a clear directive, indicating that a person does not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other life-saving measures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Typically, the form must be completed by a qualified healthcare provider and signed by the patient or their legal representative. It's essential for the DNR Order to be easily accessible to medical personnel, as it can significantly influence the course of treatment in urgent situations. Additionally, the form often includes essential information such as the patient's medical history, the reasons for the DNR decision, and any specific instructions regarding end-of-life care. Understanding the implications and requirements of a DNR Order is crucial for individuals and families navigating complex healthcare choices, as it provides a sense of control over one’s medical treatment and aligns care with personal values and preferences.

Similar forms

  • Living Will: This document outlines a person's preferences regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their wishes. Like a DNR, it focuses on end-of-life decisions.
  • Operating Agreement: To clearly define your LLC's operational structure, consider utilizing our essential Operating Agreement form resources for comprehensive guidance.

  • Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care: This form allows an individual to designate someone to make health care decisions on their behalf. It is similar to a DNR in that it addresses medical treatment preferences.
  • Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST provides specific medical orders based on the patient's preferences. It is similar to a DNR in that it guides healthcare providers in emergency situations.
  • Advance Directive: An advance directive includes both a living will and a durable power of attorney. It ensures that an individual’s healthcare choices are honored, similar to a DNR.
  • Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: A DNI order specifically instructs medical personnel not to insert a breathing tube. Like a DNR, it focuses on limiting aggressive medical interventions.
  • Health Care Proxy: This document appoints someone to make healthcare decisions if an individual becomes incapacitated. It shares similarities with a DNR in that it addresses treatment preferences.
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Directive: This directive specifically states an individual's wishes regarding CPR. It is closely related to a DNR, as both address resuscitation efforts.
  • End-of-Life Care Plan: This plan outlines the type of care desired at the end of life. It is similar to a DNR in that it reflects the patient’s wishes regarding medical interventions.
  • Do Not Hospitalize (DNH) Order: A DNH order indicates that a patient should not be admitted to a hospital for treatment. Like a DNR, it focuses on the individual's care preferences.
  • Comfort Care Order: This document specifies that a patient should receive comfort-focused care rather than aggressive treatments. It aligns with the principles of a DNR by prioritizing quality of life.

Document Properties

Fact Name Details
Definition A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a legal document that prevents medical personnel from performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac arrest.
Purpose The purpose of a DNR order is to honor a patient's wishes regarding end-of-life care, particularly when they do not want aggressive life-saving measures.
State-Specific Forms Many states have their own DNR forms, and they may have specific requirements for validity, such as signatures from the patient and a physician.
Governing Laws Each state has laws governing DNR orders. For example, in California, the DNR is governed by the California Health and Safety Code Section 7180.
Revocation A DNR order can be revoked at any time by the patient or their authorized representative, either verbally or in writing.
Healthcare Provider Obligations Healthcare providers are required to follow a valid DNR order. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences for the provider.

Things You Should Know About This Form

  1. What is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order?

    A Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that informs medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a person's heart stops beating or they stop breathing. This order is typically used for individuals who have a terminal illness or are in a state where resuscitation would not improve their quality of life.

  2. Who can request a DNR Order?

    Generally, a DNR Order can be requested by a patient who is capable of making their own medical decisions. If the patient is unable to communicate their wishes, a legally authorized representative, such as a family member or healthcare proxy, may request a DNR on their behalf.

  3. How is a DNR Order created?

    To create a DNR Order, the patient or their representative must fill out the appropriate form, which may vary by state. This form usually requires the patient’s personal information, a statement of their wishes regarding resuscitation, and the signatures of the patient and their physician. Some states may also require witnesses.

  4. Is a DNR Order valid in all healthcare settings?

    A DNR Order is generally valid in most healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and at home. However, it is important to ensure that the order is recognized by the specific facility or provider. Carrying a copy of the DNR Order is recommended for easy access during emergencies.

  5. Can a DNR Order be revoked?

    Yes, a DNR Order can be revoked at any time. The patient or their representative can verbally communicate their decision to revoke the order, or they can complete a new form that clearly states their current wishes. It is important to inform all healthcare providers of this change.

  6. What happens if a DNR Order is not followed?

    If a DNR Order is not followed, it may lead to unnecessary and unwanted medical interventions. In such cases, family members or the patient's representatives can discuss their concerns with the healthcare team. Legal action may also be considered if there is a clear violation of the DNR Order.

  7. How can I ensure my DNR Order is respected?

    To ensure that your DNR Order is respected, keep copies readily available and inform your healthcare providers, family members, and caregivers of your wishes. It may also be helpful to discuss your decision with your physician, who can provide guidance and support in ensuring that your preferences are honored.

Documents used along the form

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is an important document that outlines a patient's wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a medical emergency. Several other forms and documents often accompany a DNR to provide comprehensive guidance on a patient's healthcare preferences. Here are some of those documents:

  • Advance Directive: This legal document allows individuals to specify their healthcare preferences in advance, including decisions about life-sustaining treatments and end-of-life care.
  • Living Will: A type of advance directive, a living will details what medical treatments an individual does or does not want if they become unable to communicate their wishes.
  • Healthcare Proxy: This document designates a person to make medical decisions on behalf of the individual if they are unable to do so themselves.
  • Hold Harmless Agreement: This legal document safeguards one party from liability for injuries or damages incurred by another party during an activity, and it's commonly used in contexts such as property or service use. For more details, you can refer to the Hold Harmless Agreement.
  • Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): This form translates a patient's wishes regarding treatment into actionable medical orders, ensuring that healthcare providers follow their preferences.
  • Medical Power of Attorney: This document grants someone the authority to make medical decisions for another person, typically when that person is incapacitated.
  • Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: Similar to a DNR, a DNI order specifically states that a patient does not wish to be intubated or placed on a ventilator in the event of respiratory failure.
  • Patient’s Bill of Rights: This document outlines the rights of patients regarding their medical care, including the right to make informed decisions about their treatment options.

These forms work together to ensure that a patient’s healthcare preferences are respected and followed. It's essential to discuss these documents with healthcare providers and family members to ensure clarity and understanding of one's wishes.

Do Not Resuscitate Order Preview

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order Template

This DNR Order is created in accordance with the laws of [Your State]. It is important to complete this document to communicate your wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a medical emergency.

Please fill in the following information:

  • Patient's Full Name: ________________
  • Patient's Date of Birth: ________________
  • Patient's Address: ________________
  • Patient's Phone Number: ________________
  • Emergency Contact Name: ________________
  • Emergency Contact Phone Number: ________________

I, [Patient's Name], declare that I do not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other life-sustaining measures in the event that my heart stops beating or I stop breathing.

This decision has been made after careful consideration and is in line with my personal health care goals. I understand that this order will be honored by medical personnel in both emergency and non-emergency situations.

In case of my incapacity to express my wishes, the following person is appointed to make decisions on my behalf:

  • Authorized Person's Name: ________________
  • Relationship to Patient: ________________
  • Phone Number: ________________

Signatures:

  1. _________________________ (Patient's Signature)
  2. _________________________ (Date)

Witness (if required by state law):

  1. _________________________ (Witness Signature)
  2. _________________________ (Date)

Please keep this document in a place where it can be easily accessed by emergency responders and healthcare providers. It is advisable to discuss your DNR wishes with your family and healthcare team to ensure everyone understands your medical preferences.

Note: This document is intended for use in accordance with state laws and regulations. It may still require additional verification based on local requirements.