Printable Do Not Resuscitate Order Form

Understanding a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. Here are five common misconceptions about DNR orders, along with clarifications.

1. DNR means no medical care at all.

   This is not true. A DNR order specifically addresses resuscitation efforts during a cardiac or respiratory arrest. Patients with a DNR can still receive other medical treatments and care.

2. A DNR is the same as a living will.

   While both documents relate to end-of-life decisions, they serve different purposes. A living will outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in various situations, whereas a DNR specifically instructs healthcare providers not to perform resuscitation.

3. DNR orders are only for terminally ill patients.

   This misconception is misleading. Anyone can have a DNR order, regardless of their health status. It is a personal choice based on individual values and preferences regarding end-of-life care.

4. A DNR order is permanent and cannot be changed.

   In reality, a DNR order can be revoked or modified at any time. Patients or their designated decision-makers can change their minds about resuscitation preferences as circumstances evolve.

5. Healthcare providers will ignore a DNR order.

   This is a serious misconception. Healthcare providers are legally obligated to honor a valid DNR order. It is important to ensure that the order is properly documented and accessible to medical staff.

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is an important document that reflects a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest. Alongside a DNR, several other forms and documents may be utilized to ensure that an individual’s healthcare preferences are respected. Here is a list of related documents that often accompany a DNR order:

• Advance Directive: This is a legal document that outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in situations where they may be unable to communicate their wishes. It often includes instructions about life-sustaining treatments and end-of-life care.
• Tractor Bill of Sale: This legal document records the sale and transfer of ownership of a tractor from a seller to a buyer within the state of Georgia. For more details, visit Georgia PDF Forms.
• Living Will: A type of advance directive, a living will specifies the types of medical treatment an individual wishes to receive or refuse in the event of a terminal illness or incapacitation.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney: This document designates a specific person to make medical decisions on behalf of an individual if they become unable to do so themselves. This person is often referred to as a healthcare proxy.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for specific treatments, including resuscitation, in a more detailed manner than a DNR. It is intended for patients with serious health conditions.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: Similar to a DNR, a DNI order specifies that a patient should not be intubated or placed on a ventilator, even if other resuscitative efforts are attempted.
• Medical Records Release Authorization: This document allows individuals to authorize the sharing of their medical records with specific individuals or entities, ensuring that their healthcare wishes are communicated effectively.
• Patient Advocate Designation: This form allows a person to designate an advocate who can assist in making healthcare decisions and ensure that the patient’s wishes are honored.
• Do Not Hospitalize (DNH) Order: This order indicates that a patient should not be taken to a hospital for treatment, often used for individuals in long-term care facilities who prefer to remain in place.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Information: This document provides critical information for emergency responders about a patient's DNR status and other medical preferences, ensuring that their wishes are respected in emergency situations.

Understanding these various forms and documents can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare preferences. It is essential to have open discussions with family members and healthcare providers to ensure that everyone is aware of and respects these wishes, especially during critical moments.

When filling out a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it's essential to approach the process with care and attention. Here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

• Do ensure you understand the implications of a DNR order before completing the form.
• Do discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider and family members.
• Do fill out the form completely and accurately to avoid confusion later.
• Do sign and date the form as required to make it valid.

• Don't rush through the form; take your time to consider your decisions carefully.
• Don't forget to keep a copy of the signed DNR order for your records.
• Don't assume that verbal instructions are enough; written documentation is crucial.
• Don't neglect to review and update the form if your health situation changes.