Fillable Do Not Resuscitate Order Document

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is an important document that indicates a person's wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a medical emergency. Alongside this form, several other documents can provide additional guidance about an individual's healthcare preferences. Below is a list of other forms and documents that are often used in conjunction with a DNR Order.

• Advance Healthcare Directive: This document outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment and care in situations where they may not be able to communicate their wishes. It can include decisions about life-sustaining treatments, organ donation, and other healthcare choices.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This form designates an individual to make healthcare decisions on behalf of another person if they become unable to do so. It ensures that someone trusted can advocate for the patient's wishes.
• Living Will: A living will specifies the types of medical treatment a person wishes to receive or refuse in the event of a terminal illness or irreversible condition. It is a way to communicate preferences about end-of-life care.
• POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): This is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for treatment in emergencies. Unlike a DNR, a POLST form can address a wider range of medical interventions.
• Healthcare Proxy: Similar to a durable power of attorney, this document appoints someone to make medical decisions for an individual if they are incapacitated. It is important for ensuring that a person's healthcare wishes are honored.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: This order specifies that a patient should not be placed on a ventilator if they stop breathing or their heart stops. It is often used in conjunction with a DNR Order.
• Organ Donation Consent: This document indicates whether a person wishes to donate their organs after death. It can be included as part of an advance directive or as a separate document.
• Medical History Form: This form provides healthcare providers with essential information about a patient’s medical history, including existing conditions, medications, and previous treatments. It helps ensure that care aligns with the patient's overall health context.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Form: Some states provide specific forms for EMS personnel to follow in emergencies, indicating the patient's wishes regarding resuscitation and other medical interventions.

These documents collectively help ensure that an individual's healthcare preferences are clearly communicated and respected. They serve as vital tools in making informed decisions about medical care, particularly in critical situations.

When filling out the Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it's crucial to approach the task with care. Here are seven important points to consider:

• Do ensure you understand what a DNR order means before completing the form.
• Do discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider and family members.
• Do fill out the form completely and clearly to avoid any confusion.
• Do keep a copy of the signed form in an accessible place.
• Don't rush through the process; take your time to reflect on your decisions.
• Don't assume that verbal instructions will be honored without a written order.
• Don't forget to review and update your DNR order as your health situation changes.