Printable Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate Order Template

When filling out the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate Order form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure clarity and compliance. Here’s a list of what you should and shouldn't do:

• Do consult with your healthcare provider before completing the form.
• Do clearly indicate your wishes regarding resuscitation.
• Do sign and date the form in the appropriate sections.
• Do provide copies of the completed form to your healthcare team.
• Don't use vague language that could lead to confusion.
• Don't forget to discuss your decision with family members.

Filling out and using the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is an important step for individuals who wish to express their preferences regarding medical interventions in the event of a medical emergency. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

• The DNR Order is a legal document that indicates a person's wish not to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in case of cardiac or respiratory arrest.
• Individuals must be capable of making their own medical decisions to complete the DNR Order.
• The form should be filled out in its entirety to ensure clarity and prevent misunderstandings.
• A physician must sign the DNR Order for it to be valid. This signature confirms that the physician has discussed the order with the patient.
• It is advisable to keep the DNR Order in a prominent place, such as on the refrigerator or in a medical alert system, so it can be easily found by emergency responders.
• Family members and caregivers should be informed about the existence of the DNR Order and its contents.
• The DNR Order can be revoked at any time by the individual, and this revocation should be communicated clearly to medical personnel.
• Emergency medical services (EMS) personnel are required to honor the DNR Order as long as it is properly completed and signed.
• It is important to regularly review the DNR Order, especially if there are changes in health status or personal wishes.
• Consulting with healthcare providers can help individuals understand the implications of a DNR Order and ensure that it aligns with their values and goals for end-of-life care.

Understanding the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is essential for individuals and families making important healthcare decisions. However, several misconceptions can create confusion. Below are seven common misconceptions about the Pennsylvania DNR Order form, along with clarifications.

• A DNR means no medical care at all. This is not true. A DNR order specifically addresses resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac arrest but does not prevent other forms of medical treatment or care.
• Only terminally ill patients can have a DNR. This misconception is misleading. While many people with terminal illnesses choose a DNR, anyone can request one, regardless of their health status.
• A DNR is a legal document that must be notarized. In Pennsylvania, a DNR order does not require notarization. It must be signed by the patient or their authorized representative and a physician.
• Having a DNR means you are giving up on life. This belief is often rooted in fear. A DNR is a personal choice that reflects an individual’s values and preferences regarding end-of-life care.
• A DNR is only valid in a hospital setting. This is incorrect. In Pennsylvania, a DNR order is valid in various settings, including at home, nursing facilities, and other healthcare environments.
• You cannot change your mind once a DNR is in place. This is a misconception. Individuals have the right to revoke or modify their DNR order at any time, as long as they are mentally competent to do so.
• Emergency personnel will not provide any care if a DNR is present. This is not accurate. Emergency medical personnel will provide necessary care until they confirm the DNR order. They will follow the order only in the case of cardiac arrest.

It is crucial to have open discussions with healthcare providers and loved ones about DNR orders to ensure that everyone understands the implications and respects individual choices.

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is just one of several important documents that help guide medical decisions when a person is unable to communicate their wishes. Here are four other documents that serve similar purposes:

• Advance Healthcare Directive: This document allows individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment in case they become incapacitated. It can include specific wishes about life-sustaining treatments, similar to what a DNR specifies.
• Living Will: A living will is a type of advance directive that focuses specifically on end-of-life care. It details the types of medical treatments a person does or does not want, especially in situations where they are terminally ill or permanently unconscious.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document appoints someone to make healthcare decisions on behalf of an individual if they are unable to do so. Like a DNR, it ensures that a person’s healthcare preferences are honored, but it allows for more flexible decision-making by the appointed agent.
• POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): A POLST form translates a patient’s wishes about treatment into actionable medical orders. It is particularly useful for those with serious illnesses, ensuring that their preferences, including DNR wishes, are clearly communicated to healthcare providers.