Blank Do Not Resuscitate Order Form for California State

Here are some common misconceptions about the California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form:

1. A DNR means I will not receive any medical care.

   A DNR only specifies that you do not want resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac arrest. Other medical treatments can still be provided.

2. Only terminally ill patients need a DNR.

   Anyone can request a DNR, regardless of their health status. It is a personal choice based on individual preferences.

3. A DNR is only valid in hospitals.

   A DNR is valid in any healthcare setting, including at home or in nursing facilities, as long as it is properly documented.

4. I cannot change my mind once I have a DNR.

   You can revoke or modify your DNR order at any time, as long as you communicate your wishes clearly.

5. Healthcare providers must follow a DNR order at all times.

   Healthcare providers will follow a DNR order only when it is appropriate. They will still provide necessary care until a patient is in a situation where resuscitation is needed.

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

   A DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts, while a living will outlines broader healthcare preferences.

7. I need a lawyer to create a DNR.

   You do not need a lawyer to complete a DNR form. It can be filled out by you and signed by your physician.

8. A DNR is only for elderly individuals.

   People of all ages can have a DNR. It is a personal decision that can be made by anyone.

9. If I have a DNR, I will not receive pain relief.

   A DNR does not affect your access to pain management or other necessary treatments. Comfort care is still a priority.

10. Having a DNR means I am giving up on life.

    A DNR reflects a choice about the type of medical interventions you want, not a decision to stop living.

• Living Will: This document outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their preferences. Like a DNR, it focuses on end-of-life care.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney: This allows someone to make medical decisions on behalf of another person. It complements a DNR by designating a trusted individual to advocate for healthcare choices.
• Advance Directive: An advance directive combines a living will and a healthcare power of attorney. It provides clear instructions on medical care preferences and designates a decision-maker.
• POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): This is a medical order that details a patient's preferences for treatment. It is similar to a DNR but can cover a broader range of medical interventions.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: This document specifies that a patient does not want to be intubated if they stop breathing. It is often used in conjunction with a DNR.
• Horse Bill of Sale: To ensure the legal transfer of horse ownership, consult our essential Horse Bill of Sale guidelines for comprehensive documentation and compliance.
• Comfort Care Order: This order focuses on providing comfort to a patient rather than aggressive treatment. It aligns with the principles of a DNR by prioritizing quality of life.
• End-of-Life Care Plan: This plan outlines a person’s wishes for their final days, including pain management and emotional support. It shares the same goal of ensuring dignity and comfort as a DNR.
• Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST): Similar to POLST, this document communicates a patient's treatment preferences in a clear, actionable way. It is intended for use in emergency situations.
• Do Not Hospitalize (DNH) Order: This document indicates that a patient should not be taken to a hospital for treatment. It reflects a desire for care in a familiar setting, much like a DNR.

When considering end-of-life decisions, several important documents may complement the California Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form. These documents help ensure that your healthcare preferences are understood and respected. Below are some commonly used forms that individuals may find beneficial.

• Advance Healthcare Directive: This document allows individuals to specify their healthcare preferences and appoint a trusted person to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): The POLST form translates a patient’s wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments into actionable medical orders, guiding healthcare providers in emergency situations.
• Living Will: A living will outlines a person’s wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their desires, particularly concerning life-sustaining measures.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document designates an individual to make healthcare decisions on someone else's behalf, ensuring that their preferences are honored even if they are unable to express them.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: Similar to a DNR, this order specifically states that a patient should not be placed on a ventilator or receive intubation in the event of respiratory failure.
• Firearm Bill of Sale: To facilitate firearm ownership transfer, utilize a Pistol Bill of Sale to record the transaction legally and ensure compliance with state regulations.
• Organ Donation Registration: This document allows individuals to express their wishes regarding organ donation after death, ensuring that their intentions are known and respected by healthcare providers.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in ensuring that an individual's healthcare wishes are honored. It is essential to discuss these options with loved ones and healthcare providers to create a comprehensive plan that reflects personal values and preferences.