Understanding Do Not Resuscitate Orders
A Do Not Resuscitate order, also known as a DNR, is a medical directive that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR if a patient's heart stops or if they stop breathing. This order is typically made by a patient or their authorized representative and is usually documented in the patient's medical record.
The purpose of a DNR order is to ensure that a patient's wishes regarding end-of-life care are respected, even if they are unable to communicate their wishes themselves. It is essential to understand that a DNR order only applies to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and does not affect other medical treatments or care.
Who Can Get a DNR Card
Any competent adult can obtain a DNR card, which is usually a wallet-sized card that indicates the patient's wishes regarding CPR. To get a DNR card, a patient typically needs to discuss their wishes with their healthcare provider and complete a DNR form, which is then signed by the patient and their healthcare provider.
In some cases, a patient's authorized representative, such as a healthcare proxy or power of attorney, may be able to obtain a DNR card on the patient's behalf, provided they have the necessary authority and documentation.
The Process of Obtaining a DNR Card
The process of obtaining a DNR card typically begins with a discussion between the patient and their healthcare provider about the patient's wishes regarding end-of-life care. The patient's healthcare provider will then provide them with a DNR form, which the patient must sign and date.
Once the DNR form is completed, the patient's healthcare provider will review it and sign it, after which the patient will be given a DNR card to carry with them. It is essential to note that a DNR card is not a substitute for other advance directives, such as a living will or healthcare proxy.
Implications of Having a DNR Card
Having a DNR card can have significant implications for a patient's medical treatment and care. For example, if a patient with a DNR card is hospitalized and their heart stops or they stop breathing, hospital staff will not attempt to resuscitate them, unless the DNR order is revoked or cancelled.
It is essential to note that a DNR card only applies to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and does not affect other medical treatments or care. Patients with a DNR card will still receive other medical treatments, such as pain management and comfort care, unless they have specified otherwise in their advance directives.
Revoking or Cancelling a DNR Card
A patient can revoke or cancel their DNR card at any time, provided they have the capacity to make informed decisions about their medical care. To revoke a DNR card, a patient typically needs to notify their healthcare provider and complete a new DNR form, which must be signed and dated.
It is essential to note that a DNR card can only be revoked or cancelled by the patient themselves or by their authorized representative, if the patient is unable to make decisions about their medical care. Healthcare providers must respect a patient's wishes regarding their DNR card, unless they have a valid reason to believe that the patient's wishes have changed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Do Not Resuscitate card and how does it work
A DNR card is a medical directive that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR if a patient's heart stops or if they stop breathing, and it is usually documented in the patient's medical record and carried by the patient.
Can I get a DNR card if I am not terminally ill
Yes, any competent adult can obtain a DNR card, regardless of their medical condition, as long as they have the capacity to make informed decisions about their medical care.
How do I get a DNR card if I am unable to communicate
If you are unable to communicate, your authorized representative, such as a healthcare proxy or power of attorney, may be able to obtain a DNR card on your behalf, provided they have the necessary authority and documentation.
Can I revoke my DNR card at any time
Yes, you can revoke your DNR card at any time, provided you have the capacity to make informed decisions about your medical care, by notifying your healthcare provider and completing a new DNR form.
Does a DNR card affect other medical treatments or care
No, a DNR card only applies to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and does not affect other medical treatments or care, unless you have specified otherwise in your advance directives.
Can my family members or friends get a DNR card for me
No, only you or your authorized representative, if you are unable to make decisions about your medical care, can obtain a DNR card, and it must be done with your informed consent and in accordance with your wishes.