When making healthcare decisions, it is crucial to understand a Do-Not-Resuscitate order (DNR) and the types of DNR orders. DNR orders are legal documents that inform healthcare providers about your wishes regarding resuscitation in a medical emergency.
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What is a DNR?
A DNR is a legally binding document that informs healthcare providers that you do not wish to have resuscitative measures should you stop breathing, your heart stops beating, or you’re suffering a deadly medical emergency.
Each state sets its own parameters for what a DNR order can and cannot cover. If you’ve moved to Texas from another state, check with a local attorney to determine if your DNR meets state law. A DNR in Texas prohibits health care providers from:
- Performing CPR
- Placing you on artificial ventilation
- Performing advanced airway management
In addition, the DNR form is only valid if it is in writing, dated, and signed by the individual while they were declared competent.
Is a DNR Right For You?
You have the right to decide about your health care and which medical procedures you wish to perform. Many people consider a DNR if they have a terminal illness or chronic medical condition and don’t wish to remain in pain through artificial measures.
Often, healthy people only think of creating a DNR once they’ve been involved in a severe accident or fallen ill. However, if you have specific wishes about being resuscitated, or if your beliefs prohibit certain medical procedures, then your DNR may be the only information your family or medical professionals have about your care wishes.
Although CPR, artificial airway management, and intubation can be effective life saving techniques, the truth is that these techniques are only lifesaving when performed on strong, healthy individuals. The elderly and medically fragile are especially vulnerable and could suffer severe complications from CPR, like broken bones, hypoxic brain injuries, or a collapsed lung.
Therefore, considering the effectiveness of medical interventions like CPR is important in determining if a DNR is right for you. Consider consulting with your treating physician or a doctor with experience in this type of emergency medical care for a better overview of the outcome of certain situations.
In Hospital DNR vs. Out of Hospital DNR
Two primary types of DNR orders exist: In-Hospital DNRs and Out-of-Hospital DNRs. Here’s what you need to know about each.
In-Hospital DNR Orders
An In-Hospital DNR, often called a “no code” order, is a directive used within hospital settings. This type of DNR indicates that if a patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing while admitted to the hospital, the medical staff should not perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other lifesaving measures. This order is typically placed in the patient’s medical record and must be agreed upon by the patient and their physician.
Key Points:
- Used within hospital settings.
- Prevents resuscitation efforts such as CPR.
- Requires agreement between the patient and their physician.
- Recorded in the patient’s hospital medical record.
Out-of-Hospital DNR Orders
An Out-of-Hospital DNR order applies to individuals outside the hospital environment. This could include those living in assisted living facilities, receiving hospice care, or at home. This type of DNR ensures that emergency medical responders know the patient’s wishes not to be resuscitated if an emergency occurs outside of a hospital setting.
Key Points:
- Applies outside hospital settings.
- Alerts emergency responders not to perform resuscitation.
- Often used for individuals in assisted living, hospice, or home care.
- It must be documented and easily accessible to emergency personnel.
Importance of Understanding DNR Orders
Both types of DNR orders are critical in ensuring that your healthcare wishes are respected. It’s important to discuss these options with your healthcare provider and your loved ones to make informed decisions that align with your values and medical preferences.
Considerations:
- Discuss with your healthcare provider to understand the implications.
- Ensure family members are aware of your decisions.
- Review and update DNR orders as necessary.
For more information about DNR orders and how they fit into your comprehensive estate plan, contact an experienced estate planning attorney. They can provide guidance on healthcare directives and ensure your wishes are documented and respected.
