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

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

   A Do Not Resuscitate Order is a medical order that tells healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a person's heart stops beating or they stop breathing. It is a way for individuals to express their wishes about end-of-life care.

2. Who can request a DNR Order in Connecticut?

   In Connecticut, a DNR Order can be requested by a patient or their legally authorized representative. This includes family members or someone designated to make medical decisions on behalf of the patient.

3. How do I obtain a DNR Order form?

   You can obtain a DNR Order form from your healthcare provider, hospital, or online through the Connecticut Department of Public Health website. It is important to ensure that the form is completed correctly and signed by the appropriate parties.

4. What information is needed to complete the DNR Order form?

   The form typically requires the patient's name, date of birth, and signature. It also needs to be signed by a physician who agrees with the decision. Some forms may ask for additional medical information or the signature of a witness.

5. Where should I keep the DNR Order once it is completed?

   After completing the DNR Order, it is essential to keep it in a place where it can be easily accessed by healthcare providers. Many people choose to keep it in their medical records, at home, or with a family member who can present it in an emergency.

6. Can I change or revoke my DNR Order?

   Yes, you can change or revoke your DNR Order at any time. To do this, you may need to fill out a new form or write a statement indicating your wish to revoke the previous order. It is important to inform your healthcare providers of any changes.

7. What should I discuss with my doctor before completing a DNR Order?

   Before completing a DNR Order, it is important to have an open discussion with your doctor about your health condition, prognosis, and treatment options. Understanding the implications of a DNR Order can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your values and preferences.

Filling out the Connecticut Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is a crucial step for individuals who wish to express their medical preferences. However, mistakes can occur during this process, potentially leading to unintended consequences. One common error is not discussing the decision with family members or healthcare providers. Open communication is essential, as it ensures that everyone involved understands the individual's wishes.

Another frequent mistake is failing to complete the form in its entirety. Omitting any required sections can lead to confusion or invalidate the order. It is important to carefully review the entire document before submission. Additionally, individuals sometimes forget to sign and date the form. A signature is necessary to confirm that the decision is valid and reflects the individual's wishes.

Some people mistakenly assume that a verbal agreement suffices. A written DNR order is legally binding and must be documented properly to be effective. Relying solely on verbal communication can lead to misunderstandings in critical situations. Furthermore, individuals may neglect to provide copies of the completed form to their healthcare providers or family members. Sharing the document ensures that everyone involved is aware of the individual's preferences.

In some cases, individuals may choose not to update their DNR order as their health status changes. It is vital to review and revise the form periodically to ensure it accurately reflects current wishes. Lastly, misunderstanding the implications of a DNR order can lead to confusion. It is essential to fully grasp what a DNR order entails and how it affects medical care.

By avoiding these common mistakes, individuals can better ensure that their DNR orders are respected and upheld in accordance with their wishes. Taking the time to carefully complete the form and communicate preferences can provide peace of mind for both the individual and their loved ones.

When considering end-of-life care preferences, individuals often utilize various forms and documents in conjunction with the Connecticut Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order. These documents help ensure that a person’s wishes regarding medical treatment are clearly communicated and respected. Below is a list of commonly used forms alongside the DNR Order.

• Advance Directive: This document outlines an individual's preferences for medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their wishes. It may include specific instructions about life-sustaining measures and other healthcare decisions.
• Living Will: A living will is a type of advance directive that specifically addresses a person's wishes regarding end-of-life care. It provides guidance on whether to continue or withdraw life-sustaining treatments in terminal situations.
• Health Care Proxy: This document designates a person to make medical decisions on behalf of someone else if they become incapacitated. The appointed proxy must act in accordance with the individual's wishes, as outlined in their advance directive or living will.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): This is a medical order that translates a patient’s treatment preferences into actionable physician orders. It is particularly useful for individuals with serious illnesses, ensuring that their care aligns with their goals.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: A DNI order specifies that a patient should not be placed on a ventilator in the event of respiratory failure. This document is often used alongside a DNR order to provide clear instructions about the level of intervention desired.
• Organ Donation Consent Form: This form indicates an individual’s wishes regarding organ donation after death. It can be a crucial component of end-of-life planning, ensuring that the person's intentions are honored.

Utilizing these documents in conjunction with the Connecticut Do Not Resuscitate Order helps create a comprehensive plan for healthcare preferences. It is essential for individuals to discuss their wishes with family members and healthcare providers to ensure that their choices are understood and respected.

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is an important document that outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in the event of a cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. Several other documents serve similar purposes in healthcare settings. Here are eight documents that share similarities with a DNR Order:

• Living Will: This document specifies an individual's preferences for medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their wishes, particularly regarding end-of-life care.
• Healthcare Proxy: A healthcare proxy designates a trusted person to make medical decisions on behalf of an individual if they become incapacitated.
• Advance Directive: This is a broader term that encompasses both living wills and healthcare proxies, allowing individuals to outline their medical care preferences and appoint decision-makers.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST forms provide specific medical orders for patients with serious illnesses, detailing their preferences for treatments like resuscitation and other life-sustaining measures.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: Similar to a DNR, a DNI order specifically instructs healthcare providers not to insert a breathing tube if a patient cannot breathe on their own.
• Comfort Care Order: This document focuses on providing comfort and pain relief rather than curative treatments, ensuring that a patient’s quality of life is prioritized.
• Patient Preferences Document: This outlines a patient's wishes regarding various aspects of their care, including preferences for life-sustaining treatments, pain management, and palliative care.
• Do Not Hospitalize Order: This order indicates that a patient should not be admitted to a hospital for treatment, emphasizing a preference for care at home or in a hospice setting.

When filling out the Connecticut Do Not Resuscitate Order form, it's important to follow specific guidelines. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn't do:

• Do ensure that you understand the implications of a Do Not Resuscitate Order.
• Do consult with your healthcare provider before completing the form.
• Do fill out the form clearly and legibly to avoid any confusion.
• Do keep a copy of the completed form in an accessible location.

• Don't sign the form without fully understanding its consequences.
• Don't forget to date the form when you complete it.
• Don't leave any sections blank, as this may lead to misunderstandings.
• Don't assume that verbal instructions are enough; the form must be written.

Understanding the Connecticut Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is important for both patients and their families. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are six common misconceptions:

1. A DNR means that no medical care will be provided. This is incorrect. A DNR order specifically relates to not performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Other medical treatments and interventions can still be provided as needed.
2. A DNR is only for terminally ill patients. Many people believe that DNR orders are only appropriate for those at the end of life. In reality, anyone can choose to have a DNR order, regardless of their current health status, based on their personal wishes regarding resuscitation.
3. A DNR is a legally binding document that cannot be changed. While a DNR order is a legal document, it can be revoked or modified at any time by the patient or their legally authorized representative. Communication with healthcare providers is key to ensuring that the patient's wishes are honored.
4. If I have a DNR, I cannot receive other life-saving treatments. This is a misconception. A DNR order does not prevent patients from receiving other forms of medical care, such as medications, surgeries, or other interventions that do not involve resuscitation.
5. DNR orders are only valid in hospitals. DNR orders can be valid in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and even at home. However, it is important to ensure that the order is properly documented and recognized in each setting.
6. Having a DNR means I am giving up on life. Many people mistakenly believe that choosing a DNR order signifies a desire to stop fighting for life. In truth, it is often a personal decision based on individual values and beliefs about the quality of life and the circumstances under which one wishes to receive or decline resuscitation efforts.

By clarifying these misconceptions, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare preferences and communicate their wishes effectively with family and healthcare providers.

When considering the Connecticut Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it's essential to understand its purpose and how to properly complete it. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

1. Understanding DNR: A DNR order is a legal document that informs medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops beating or if you stop breathing.
2. Eligibility: Anyone can fill out a DNR order, but it is primarily intended for individuals with serious health conditions or those who are nearing the end of life.
3. Consultation: It is advisable to discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider before completing the form. They can provide guidance based on your medical situation.
4. Completion: The DNR form must be filled out accurately. Ensure that all required fields, including your name and date of birth, are completed.
5. Signature: The form must be signed by you or your legal representative. If a representative signs, their relationship to you should be noted.
6. Witness Requirement: The signature must be witnessed by at least one person who is not a family member or your healthcare provider.
7. Distribution: Once completed, provide copies of the DNR order to your healthcare provider, family members, and anyone else involved in your care.
8. Revocation: You can revoke a DNR order at any time. To do so, inform your healthcare provider and destroy any copies of the form.
9. Emergency Medical Services: Make sure to keep a copy of the DNR order in a visible location, such as on your refrigerator or with your medical records, so that emergency responders can easily access it.
10. State Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Connecticut's specific laws regarding DNR orders to ensure compliance and understand your rights.

By understanding these key points, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare preferences and ensure that your wishes are respected in critical situations.