Attorney-Approved Do Not Resuscitate Order Document for the State of California

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

   A Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that allows a person to refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. In California, this order must be signed by a physician and is intended to ensure that individuals receive care aligned with their wishes regarding end-of-life treatment.

2. Who can request a DNR Order?

   Any adult who is capable of making medical decisions can request a DNR Order. This includes individuals facing terminal illnesses or severe medical conditions. Additionally, a legal representative, such as a healthcare proxy or an agent under a power of attorney, may request a DNR on behalf of someone who is unable to do so.

3. How is a DNR Order created in California?

   To create a DNR Order, a patient must discuss their wishes with their physician. If both parties agree, the physician will complete and sign the DNR form. This form must then be presented in a manner that is readily accessible to emergency medical personnel, such as being placed on the refrigerator or carried by the patient.

4. What does a DNR Order cover?

   A DNR Order specifically addresses the refusal of CPR and other life-saving measures. It does not affect other medical treatments, such as pain management or comfort care. Patients can still receive appropriate medical care that aligns with their overall treatment goals.

5. Can a DNR Order be revoked?

   Yes, a DNR Order can be revoked at any time by the patient or their legal representative. To revoke the order, the patient should communicate their wishes to their healthcare provider and ensure that the DNR form is removed from their medical records. It is advisable to document the revocation for clarity.

6. What should individuals do if they change their mind about a DNR Order?

   If an individual changes their mind about a DNR Order, they should inform their healthcare provider immediately. They can also create a new document that clearly states their current wishes. It is important to ensure that all relevant parties, including family members and medical personnel, are aware of the change.

7. Are there any legal protections for healthcare providers regarding DNR Orders?

   Yes, California law provides legal protection for healthcare providers who act in accordance with a valid DNR Order. As long as the order is properly executed and presented, healthcare providers are protected from legal liability for not performing resuscitation efforts.

Filling out a California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form can be a challenging task, as it requires individuals to confront sensitive topics about their health care preferences. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes that can lead to confusion or unintended consequences. One common error is failing to sign the form. Without a signature, the document lacks legal validity, rendering it ineffective when it is most needed.

Another frequent mistake is not having the form witnessed properly. California law mandates that a DNR order must be signed by either a physician or a licensed health care professional. Some individuals overlook this requirement, thinking that their own signature suffices. This oversight can invalidate the order and leave individuals vulnerable to unwanted resuscitation efforts.

People often misunderstand the scope of the DNR order as well. Some mistakenly believe that a DNR order applies to all medical situations, when in fact, it specifically addresses resuscitation efforts. This misunderstanding can lead to situations where individuals receive unwanted treatments for conditions that do not involve cardiac arrest.

Additionally, failing to communicate the existence of the DNR order to family members and medical personnel can create significant issues. It is essential to ensure that loved ones and caregivers are aware of the order so that they can advocate for the individual's wishes. Without this communication, there may be confusion during a medical emergency, potentially leading to the opposite of what the individual intended.

Another mistake involves not keeping the DNR order in a readily accessible location. If the form is tucked away in a drawer or filed away without proper notice, medical personnel may not find it when needed. It's crucial to keep the document in an easily accessible place, such as with other important medical records or in a designated folder that caregivers know to check.

Moreover, some individuals neglect to update their DNR orders as their health status changes. A DNR order should reflect a person's current wishes and medical condition. Regularly reviewing and, if necessary, revising the order can ensure that it aligns with the individual's preferences, especially after significant health changes.

Another common error is using outdated forms or templates. California law has specific requirements for DNR orders, and using an older version may not meet current legal standards. Individuals should always obtain the most recent form from a reliable source, such as a healthcare provider or official state website.

Lastly, individuals sometimes forget to discuss their DNR wishes with their primary care physician. A DNR order should not be a standalone document; it should be part of a broader conversation about health care preferences. Engaging with a physician ensures that the order is understood within the context of the individual's overall health care plan.

The California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is an important document that outlines a person's wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a medical emergency. Alongside this form, several other documents may be utilized to ensure that an individual's healthcare preferences are respected. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that complement the DNR Order.

• Advance Healthcare Directive: This document allows individuals to specify their healthcare preferences and appoint a healthcare agent to make decisions on their behalf if they become unable to communicate.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for life-sustaining treatments, including resuscitation, and must be signed by a physician.
• Living Will: A living will is a type of advance directive that provides guidance on an individual’s wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot express their preferences.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney: This legal document designates an individual to make healthcare decisions on behalf of another person if they are incapacitated.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: A DNI order specifies that a patient does not wish to be intubated or placed on a ventilator, differing from a DNR in that it specifically addresses airway management.
• Patient Preferences for End-of-Life Care: This document outlines a patient's preferences for end-of-life care, including pain management and comfort measures, ensuring that their wishes are known and respected.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in healthcare planning, allowing individuals to communicate their wishes and ensure that their preferences are honored in critical situations. Understanding these forms can facilitate better decision-making for patients, families, and healthcare providers.

• Living Will: A living will outlines your preferences for medical treatment in situations where you cannot communicate your wishes. Like a Do Not Resuscitate Order, it helps ensure that your healthcare preferences are honored.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document allows you to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf. It complements a DNR by ensuring that your chosen advocate understands your wishes about resuscitation and other treatments.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST is a medical order that reflects your wishes regarding treatments like resuscitation. It is similar to a DNR in that it is a legally recognized document that guides medical professionals in emergency situations.
• Advance Healthcare Directive: This broader document combines elements of a living will and a durable power of attorney. It provides comprehensive instructions about your healthcare preferences, including whether or not you wish to be resuscitated.
• Do Not Intubate Order: This specific order indicates that you do not want to be placed on a ventilator if you cannot breathe on your own. It is similar to a DNR in that it reflects your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments.
• Comfort Care Order: This document prioritizes comfort over aggressive treatment. It focuses on providing relief from pain and symptoms rather than attempting resuscitation, aligning with the goals of a DNR.
• Healthcare Proxy: A healthcare proxy designates someone to make medical decisions for you when you are unable to do so. This document works alongside a DNR by ensuring that your proxy understands your wishes regarding resuscitation and other life-sustaining measures.

When filling out the California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it's crucial to approach the process with care and attention. Here are ten essential guidelines to follow, including both actions to take and mistakes to avoid.

• Do consult with your healthcare provider before completing the form to ensure you understand the implications.
• Do clearly indicate your wishes regarding resuscitation on the form.
• Do have a witness present when you sign the form, as required by California law.
• Do keep a copy of the signed DNR Order in a safe place and share it with your family and healthcare team.
• Do review the form periodically to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

• Don't use vague language; be specific about your preferences.
• Don't forget to date the form when you sign it, as this is essential for validity.
• Don't leave the form unsigned; an unsigned DNR Order is not legally binding.
• Don't assume that verbal instructions will suffice; written documentation is necessary.
• Don't ignore state regulations; ensure your form complies with California laws to be effective.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your DNR Order accurately reflects your wishes and is legally enforceable. Take the time to make informed decisions about your healthcare preferences.

Many people have misconceptions about the California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form. Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for making informed decisions about end-of-life care. Here are nine common misunderstandings:

1. A DNR order means no medical care at all.

   This is false. A DNR order specifically addresses resuscitation efforts, such as CPR, but does not prevent other medical treatments. Patients can still receive necessary medical care.

2. Only terminally ill patients can have a DNR order.

   This is incorrect. Anyone can request a DNR order, regardless of their health status. It is a personal choice that reflects individual wishes about resuscitation.

3. A DNR order is the same as a living will.

   These are different documents. A living will outlines broader wishes regarding medical treatment, while a DNR order specifically focuses on resuscitation efforts.

4. You can only obtain a DNR order in a hospital.

   This is not true. DNR orders can be created in various settings, including at home, with the proper documentation and physician involvement.

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

   This misconception is misleading. A DNR order can be revoked or modified at any time by the patient or their designated representative.

6. Healthcare providers must follow a DNR order without question.

   While healthcare providers respect DNR orders, they also have a responsibility to assess the situation and ensure the order is valid and applicable.

7. Having a DNR order means you will die sooner.

   This is a myth. A DNR order does not hasten death. It simply indicates a preference for not undergoing aggressive resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac arrest.

8. A DNR order is only for elderly individuals.

   This is not accurate. DNR orders can be requested by individuals of any age who wish to specify their preferences regarding resuscitation.

9. You don’t need to discuss a DNR order with family.

   It is important to communicate your wishes with family members. Open discussions can help ensure that your preferences are understood and respected.

Understanding the California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is essential for individuals who wish to express their healthcare preferences. Below are key takeaways to consider when filling out and using this important document.

• The DNR Order form allows individuals to communicate their wishes regarding resuscitation in the event of a medical emergency.
• It is crucial to discuss your decision with family members and healthcare providers to ensure everyone is informed and supportive.
• The form must be signed by the individual or their legally authorized representative to be valid.
• Healthcare providers are required to honor a valid DNR Order, which can prevent unnecessary and unwanted medical interventions.
• The DNR Order should be easily accessible, preferably kept in a location where emergency medical personnel can find it quickly.
• Individuals can revoke or change their DNR Order at any time, provided they follow the proper procedures.
• It is advisable to carry a copy of the DNR Order in your wallet or purse for easy access during emergencies.
• Each state may have different laws regarding DNR Orders, so it is important to be familiar with California's specific regulations.
• Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide valuable guidance on how to complete the form and understand its implications.
• Regularly reviewing your DNR Order ensures that it reflects your current wishes and medical circumstances.

By taking these steps, individuals can ensure that their healthcare preferences are respected, providing peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones.