Attorney-Verified Do Not Resuscitate Order Form for California State

When dealing with end-of-life care decisions, several documents often accompany the California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form. These forms help clarify medical wishes and ensure that healthcare providers follow the patient's preferences. Below is a list of essential documents that may be used alongside the DNR Order.

• Advance Healthcare Directive: This document allows individuals to specify their healthcare preferences and appoint a person to make decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for treatment in emergencies, including resuscitation and other life-sustaining measures.
• Illinois Bill of Sale: This form is essential for documenting the transfer of ownership of personal property, providing legal proof of the transaction and details about the item being sold. For more information on how to use this form, visit Templates and Guide.
• Living Will: A living will provides instructions regarding medical treatment preferences in situations where the individual is terminally ill or permanently unconscious.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney: This document designates a trusted individual to make healthcare decisions for someone if they are unable to communicate their wishes.
• Do Not Hospitalize (DNH) Order: A DNH order communicates a patient's wish to avoid hospitalization in certain situations, focusing on comfort care instead.
• Comfort Care Order: This order emphasizes the provision of comfort measures rather than curative treatments, ensuring that the patient's quality of life is prioritized.

Having these documents in place can significantly ease the burden on family members and healthcare providers during difficult times. It is crucial to ensure that all relevant parties are aware of these documents and their contents to honor the patient's wishes effectively.

When filling out the California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it’s important to approach the process with care. Here are five things you should do and five things you should avoid.

Things You Should Do:

• Consult with your healthcare provider to understand the implications of a DNR order.
• Ensure that the form is completed in full, providing all necessary information.
• Sign the form in the presence of a witness or notary, if required.
• Keep a copy of the signed DNR order in a safe place, and share copies with your healthcare team.
• Review and update the DNR order periodically to reflect any changes in your wishes.

Things You Shouldn't Do:

• Do not fill out the form without discussing it with your family or healthcare provider.
• Do not leave any sections of the form blank; incomplete forms may not be honored.
• Do not forget to date the form; an undated form can lead to confusion.
• Do not assume that verbal instructions will be sufficient; always use the official form.
• Do not ignore state laws or regulations regarding DNR orders; they may vary.

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

   A Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that allows a person to refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of a medical emergency. This means that if the heart stops beating or the person stops breathing, medical personnel will not attempt to revive them. It is important for individuals to discuss their wishes with their healthcare providers and loved ones before completing this document.

2. Who can complete a DNR Order in California?

   In California, any competent adult can complete a DNR Order. If the individual is unable to make decisions due to a medical condition, a legally authorized representative, such as a spouse, adult child, or legal guardian, may complete the order on their behalf. It is essential that the person completing the form understands the individual’s wishes regarding end-of-life care.

3. How do I obtain a DNR Order form?

   You can obtain a DNR Order form from various sources, including hospitals, healthcare providers, or online from state health department websites. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that the form is completed correctly and reflects the individual's wishes accurately.

4. What should I do after completing the DNR Order?

   Once the DNR Order is completed and signed, it is crucial to share copies with relevant parties. This includes your healthcare provider, family members, and anyone else involved in your care. Keep a copy in a place that is easily accessible, such as a medical file or a designated location in your home.

5. Can a DNR Order be revoked?

   Yes, a DNR Order can be revoked at any time. The individual who created the order can verbally express their wish to revoke it or complete a new form indicating their desire to cancel the previous order. It is important to communicate this change to all relevant parties to ensure that your current wishes are respected.