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

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

   A Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that allows individuals to refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other life-saving measures in the event of a medical emergency. In Oregon, this order is particularly important for those who wish to avoid aggressive interventions in the case of cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. It is a way to express your healthcare preferences clearly.

2. Who can complete a DNR Order in Oregon?

   Any adult who is capable of making their own healthcare decisions can complete a DNR Order. This includes individuals who are experiencing a terminal illness or have a serious medical condition. If someone is unable to make these decisions, a legally authorized representative, such as a family member or healthcare proxy, may be able to complete the order on their behalf.

3. How do I obtain a DNR Order form in Oregon?

   The DNR Order form can be obtained from several sources. You can find it online through the Oregon Health Authority's website or request a copy from your healthcare provider. It is crucial to ensure that you are using the most current version of the form to avoid any complications.

4. What steps are involved in completing a DNR Order?

   Completing a DNR Order involves several key steps:

   • First, discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider to ensure they understand your goals and preferences.
   • Next, fill out the DNR Order form accurately, providing all required information.
   • After completing the form, sign it and have it witnessed as required.
   • Finally, ensure that copies of the signed form are provided to your healthcare provider, family members, and anyone else who may need to know about your wishes.
5. Will a DNR Order be honored in all healthcare settings?

   In general, a DNR Order should be honored by all healthcare providers in Oregon. However, it is essential to communicate your wishes clearly and ensure that the order is readily accessible to medical personnel. Keeping a copy of the DNR Order in your medical records and carrying a copy with you can help ensure that your preferences are respected in emergencies.

Filling out the Oregon Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form can be a critical step in ensuring that a person's healthcare preferences are respected. However, many people make mistakes during this process. One common error is not discussing the decision with family members or healthcare providers. Open conversations can clarify intentions and prevent misunderstandings later.

Another frequent mistake is failing to sign the form. A DNR order is only valid if it is signed by the patient or their authorized representative. Without a signature, the document carries no weight in a medical setting. Additionally, people often overlook the importance of dating the form. An undated DNR may lead to confusion about its validity, especially if there are changes in the patient's condition.

Many individuals also neglect to provide clear identification on the form. Including full names, dates of birth, and other identifying information is crucial. This helps medical personnel quickly verify the patient's identity and intentions. Similarly, people sometimes forget to specify the circumstances under which the DNR should apply. Clarity about the patient's wishes can help avoid potential disputes in emergency situations.

Another mistake involves not keeping copies of the completed form. It's essential to distribute copies to healthcare providers, family members, and even keep one in a visible place at home. This ensures that the DNR is accessible when needed. Additionally, some individuals fail to review and update the DNR form as their health status changes. Regularly revisiting the document ensures it reflects the current wishes of the patient.

People may also make the error of using outdated forms. It's important to use the most current version of the DNR order to ensure compliance with state laws. Lastly, some individuals might not consider the implications of a DNR order fully. Understanding what a DNR means in terms of medical care is crucial, as it can affect other treatments and interventions.

In Oregon, the Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is an important document for individuals who wish to express their preferences regarding medical treatment in emergencies. Along with the DNR, there are several other documents that can help clarify a person's healthcare wishes. Here are some commonly used forms and documents:

• Advance Directive: This document allows individuals to outline their healthcare preferences in advance. It can specify the type of medical treatment they want or do not want if they become unable to communicate those wishes.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney: This form designates a trusted person to make medical decisions on behalf of someone if they are unable to do so. This agent can ensure that the individual's healthcare wishes are honored.
• POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): The POLST form is a medical order that provides specific instructions for emergency medical personnel. It outlines the individual’s preferences for life-sustaining treatments and must be signed by a healthcare provider.
• Living Will: This document expresses an individual’s wishes regarding end-of-life care. It can specify what types of medical treatment they would or would not want if they are terminally ill or in a persistent vegetative state.

These documents work together to ensure that a person's healthcare preferences are respected. It’s essential to have these forms in place to communicate wishes clearly and avoid confusion during critical times.

• Advance Directive: This document allows individuals to outline their healthcare preferences in advance, particularly in situations where they cannot communicate. Like a Do Not Resuscitate Order, it ensures that a person's wishes regarding medical treatment are respected.
• Living Will: A living will is a type of advance directive that specifically details what medical treatments an individual does or does not want if they become terminally ill or incapacitated. It shares the same goal of guiding healthcare decisions when the patient is unable to speak for themselves.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document designates a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on behalf of an individual if they are unable to do so. Similar to a DNR, it emphasizes the importance of personal choice in medical care.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): A POLST form translates a patient’s wishes about treatment into actionable medical orders. It is often used for those with serious illnesses, much like a DNR, ensuring that healthcare providers follow the patient's preferences.
• Healthcare Proxy: A healthcare proxy allows a person to appoint someone else to make medical decisions for them when they cannot. This document, like a DNR, emphasizes the need for personal wishes to be honored in medical situations.
• Do Not Intubate Order: This specific order indicates that a patient does not want to be intubated or placed on a ventilator. It is similar to a DNR in that it reflects a patient's desire to avoid certain life-sustaining measures.

When filling out the Oregon Do Not Resuscitate Order form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure your wishes are clearly communicated. Here are four things to do and not to do:

• Do provide accurate personal information, including your name, date of birth, and contact details.
• Do discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider to ensure they understand your choices.
• Do sign and date the form in the presence of a witness, if required.
• Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records and share it with your family and healthcare team.

• Don't leave any sections of the form blank; incomplete forms may not be honored.
• Don't use unclear language or abbreviations that could lead to misunderstandings.
• Don't forget to update the form if your wishes change or if your health status changes.
• Don't assume that verbal instructions alone will be sufficient; written documentation is essential.

Understanding the Oregon Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is crucial for anyone considering end-of-life care options. Unfortunately, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are ten common misunderstandings:

1. A DNR means you will not receive any medical care. Many people think a DNR order means a person will receive no medical treatment at all. In reality, a DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts, not other medical care.
2. You need to be terminally ill to have a DNR. While many associate DNR orders with terminal illnesses, anyone can request one, regardless of their health status. It’s a personal choice based on individual preferences.
3. A DNR is the same as a living will. These are different documents. A living will outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment in various situations, while a DNR specifically addresses resuscitation.
4. Your family can override your DNR wishes. A properly executed DNR order is legally binding. Family members cannot override it unless they have legal authority, such as being a designated healthcare representative.
5. You cannot change your mind about a DNR. You can change or revoke a DNR order at any time. It’s essential to communicate any changes to your healthcare providers.
6. DNR orders are only for older adults. This misconception overlooks that younger individuals can also choose a DNR based on their values and beliefs about end-of-life care.
7. A DNR means you will die sooner. Choosing a DNR does not hasten death. It simply indicates a preference for not undergoing aggressive resuscitation efforts.
8. You can’t have a DNR if you are hospitalized. Hospitals often respect DNR orders. It’s important to discuss your wishes with medical staff to ensure they are honored.
9. All states have the same DNR rules. DNR laws and forms vary by state. It’s important to familiarize yourself with Oregon’s specific regulations regarding DNR orders.
10. Once a DNR is signed, it’s permanent. A DNR is not a permanent decision. You can review and revise it as your health or preferences change.

Being informed about these misconceptions can help you make better decisions regarding end-of-life care. Always consult with a healthcare professional or legal expert when considering a DNR order to ensure your wishes are clearly understood and documented.

When considering the Oregon Do Not Resuscitate Order form, it is essential to understand its purpose and how to properly utilize it. Here are some key takeaways:

• The form allows individuals to express their wishes regarding resuscitation in case of a medical emergency.
• It must be signed by both the patient and their attending physician to be valid.
• The order should be easily accessible, ideally kept in a location where emergency responders can find it quickly.
• It is important to regularly review and update the order as circumstances and health conditions change.