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Homepage ➨ Attorney-Approved Do Not Resuscitate Order Document
Content Overview

State-specific Do Not Resuscitate Order Forms

Form Breakdown

Fact Name Details
Definition A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is a legal document that instructs medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patient's heart stops or they stop breathing.
Purpose The primary purpose of a DNR order is to honor a patient’s wishes regarding end-of-life care and to avoid unnecessary suffering.
Legal Status DNR orders are legally binding documents in the United States, provided they comply with state laws and regulations.
State Variations Each state has its own specific form and regulations regarding DNR orders, so it’s essential to use the correct form for your state.
Governing Laws In many states, DNR orders are governed by health care laws and regulations, which may vary significantly. For example, California's DNR is governed by the California Health and Safety Code.
Who Can Issue Typically, a DNR order can be issued by a physician and must be signed by the patient or their legal representative.
Revocation Patients can revoke a DNR order at any time, either verbally or in writing, and medical staff must respect the change.
Communication It’s vital to communicate the existence of a DNR order to all healthcare providers involved in a patient’s care to ensure it is honored.
Emergency Situations In emergency situations, if a DNR order is not readily available, medical personnel may initiate resuscitation until they can verify the order.
Emotional Considerations Deciding on a DNR order can be emotionally challenging for patients and families, often requiring thoughtful discussions about values and preferences.

Sample - Do Not Resuscitate Order Form

Do Not Resuscitate Order (for [State Name])

This Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is effective in the state of [State Name] and is intended to communicate your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event of a medical emergency.

It is essential to have this document completed and signed for it to be valid. Ensure that the document is easily accessible to your healthcare providers and family members.

Patient Information:

  • Name: ___________________________________
  • Date of Birth: _____________________________
  • Address: __________________________________
  • Phone Number: _____________________________

Medical Information:

  • Primary Physician's Name: ______________________
  • Physician's Phone Number: ______________________

Statement of Wishes:

I, the undersigned, declare that I do not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or any other life-support measures if my heart stops beating or I stop breathing. This decision reflects my personal preferences and values regarding end-of-life care.

Signatures:

Patient Signature: _____________________________ Date: ___________

Witness Signature: _____________________________ Date: ___________

This DNR Order has been created according to the laws of [State Name]. It should be reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to reflect any changes in your health condition or preferences.

For further assistance in completing this order, please consult with your healthcare provider or a legal professional.

Common mistakes

Filling out a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is a significant decision. It’s essential to approach this task with care. One common mistake people make is failing to discuss their wishes with family members or healthcare providers. Open communication can prevent confusion and ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the individual's preferences.

Another frequent error is not understanding the specific requirements of the form. Each state has its own regulations regarding DNR orders. People often overlook the need to check state-specific guidelines. This oversight can lead to invalid orders, which may not be honored in a medical emergency.

Some individuals neglect to sign and date the form. A DNR order must be signed by the patient or their authorized representative to be legally binding. Without a signature, the document holds no weight in a medical setting. It’s crucial to ensure that all necessary signatures are included.

Another mistake involves not keeping copies of the DNR order in accessible locations. A DNR order should be readily available to medical personnel. If the document is stored away in a file cabinet, it may not be found in time during an emergency. Keeping copies in multiple locations can help ensure it is seen when needed.

People sometimes forget to review and update their DNR orders. Life circumstances can change, and so can personal wishes. Regularly revisiting the DNR order ensures that it reflects current preferences and situations. This practice helps avoid potential conflicts or confusion in the future.

Lastly, individuals may not involve their healthcare provider in the process. A DNR order should be a collaborative effort between the patient and their doctor. This collaboration can provide clarity and ensure that the order aligns with medical advice and understanding. Engaging with a healthcare professional can help people make informed decisions about their care.

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