Legal Do Not Resuscitate Order Form for the State of New York

Guide to Using New York Do Not Resuscitate Order

Completing a New York Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) is an important step for individuals who wish to make their health care wishes known in advance, specifically regarding the withholding of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event their breathing stops or their heart ceases to beat. This process involves clear communication with healthcare providers and, importantly, ensures that individual preferences are respected during critical moments. Below are the steps required to accurately fill out the form, ensuring it is legal and valid.

1. Begin by gathering all necessary information, including the patient's full legal name, date of birth, and address. This ensures the DNR order is accurately associated with the correct individual.
2. Consult with the patient’s healthcare provider to thoroughly discuss the implications and significance of a DNR order. This conversation should cover when the DNR would come into effect and any potential scenarios impacting the patient's decision.
3. Enter the patient's details into the designated areas on the form. It is essential that this information is accurate and clearly legible to prevent any misunderstandings.
4. The healthcare provider must complete their section of the form, including their name, contact information, and signature. This acts as a professional endorsement of the patient's decision and confirms that a discussion has occurred.
5. If the patient is competent and able to consent, they should sign and date the form in the presence of a witness. The witness must also sign and date the form, attesting to the authenticity of the patient’s signature and their understanding of the document's content.
6. In situations where the patient is unable to provide consent, a health care proxy, legal guardian, or family member authorized to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the patient must sign and date the form. Documentation proving their authority to do so should be attached.
7. Once completed and signed, the form should be placed in a prominent and accessible location. Copies should also be provided to the patient’s primary care provider, local hospital, and any other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care.
8. It's advisable to review the DNR order periodically, especially if the patient's health condition changes. Modifications or revocation of the order can be made if the patient's wishes evolve.

By following these steps, individuals can ensure their health care preferences are clearly communicated and legally recorded. This action not only provides peace of mind for the patient and their loved ones but also guides healthcare providers in delivering care that respects the patient's wishes.

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

   A Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) is a medical directive in New York, instructing healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patient's breathing or heartbeat stops. The directive is made ahead of time, reflecting the patient’s wishes regarding end-of-life care.

2. Who can request a DNR order in New York?

   Any competent adult can request a DNR order. For individuals unable to make such decisions due to medical conditions, a legally designated health care proxy or a family member authorized to make healthcare decisions can request it on their behalf.

3. How can someone create a DNR order in New York?

   To create a DNR order in New York, a discussion with a healthcare provider is necessary. The healthcare provider must agree that the DNR order is in the patient's best interest, and then the DNR form is completed and signed by both the healthcare provider and the patient or their designated representative.

4. Where is the DNR order form available?

   The DNR order form is available from healthcare providers, hospitals, and can also be downloaded from the New York State Department of Health website. It is important to use the most current form to ensure compliance with state laws.

5. Is the New York DNR order valid in other states?

   The validity of New York's DNR order in other states varies. Each state has its laws regarding DNR orders. However, most healthcare providers across the United States respect a patient's wish as outlined in a DNR. It's advisable to check the specific laws of any other state where you might seek medical care.

6. Can a DNR order be canceled or revoked?

   Yes, a DNR order can be canceled or revoked at any time by the person who requested it, either verbally or in writing. Healthcare providers should be notified immediately upon revocation to update the patient’s medical records.

7. What is the difference between a DNR and a living will?

   A DNR specifically instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR. A living will is broader, potentially covering a range of medical interventions and life-sustaining measures a patient wishes to accept or refuse in advance of incapacity. Both are advance directives that guide decisions about end-of-life care.

8. Does a lawyer need to be involved in creating a DNR order?

   No, a lawyer does not need to be involved in creating a DNR order in New York. However, consulting with a legal professional can be beneficial to ensure that all aspects of an individual’s end-of-life plans are clearly understood and properly documented.

9. How should a DNR order be stored?

   A DNR order should be kept in a place where it can be easily accessed by family members or caregivers. Copies should be provided to the individual's healthcare provider, kept with personal medical records, and potentially carried by the individual, especially if they frequently travel or live alone.

10. What happens if there is no DNR in place and a medical emergency occurs?

    If no DNR is in place and a medical emergency occurs, medical personnel are obligated to perform all necessary lifesaving procedures, including CPR. For those wishing to avoid such measures, it is crucial to have a valid DNR order.

Filling out a New York Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is a crucial step for those who wish to make their health care preferences known in case of a life-threatening situation. Unfortunately, common mistakes can hinder the effectiveness of these instructions. Recognizing and avoiding these missteps is essential for ensuring that a person's wishes are clearly communicated and respected.

1. One frequent error is not having the form signed by a physician. In New York, a DNR order must be signed by a licensed physician to be valid. Without this signature, the form cannot legally prevent emergency medical personnel from performing resuscitation efforts.

2. Another common mistake is failing to discuss the decision with family members. While the decision to not be resuscitated is personal, not sharing this choice with loved ones can lead to confusion and emotional distress during critical moments.

3. Many people forget to update their DNR order. Health care preferences can change over time, and it's important to ensure that the DNR order reflects current wishes. People should review and potentially update their DNR order regularly or after a significant change in their health condition.

4. A significant oversight is not making multiple copies of the DNR form. Individuals should ensure that a copy is readily available at home, and that their doctor, health care proxy, and any relevant health care facilities have copies. This ensures that the DNR order is accessible when needed.

5. Some individuals inaccurately fill out details on the form. For the DNR order to be effective, all information must be accurately recorded. This includes correct patient identification, and specifying the type of DNR order, whether it is for out-of-hospital or in-hospital use.

6. Another error occurs when individuals do not carry a wallet card indicating they have a DNR order. In an emergency, a wallet card can quickly inform medical personnel of the patient's wishes, potentially preventing unwanted resuscitation attempts.

7. Lastly, failing to consult with a healthcare professional when completing a DNR order is a critical mistake. A healthcare professional can provide guidance, ensuring that individuals fully understand the implications of their decisions and the process for legally executing their wishes.

Avoiding these mistakes requires attention to detail and thoughtful consideration. Taking the right steps ensures that a person's choices about their end-of-life care are respected and followed, providing peace of mind to them and their families.

When preparing for healthcare scenarios that may arise suddenly, understanding and organizing the necessary documents is crucial for every New York resident. The New York Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is a key document, but it's often accompanied by several other forms that ensure a person's healthcare wishes are comprehensively documented and respected. Below is a list of documents commonly used in conjunction with a DNR order, each playing a vital role in managing one's health care directives and ensuring they are honored.

• Health Care Proxy: This document allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to make health care decisions on their behalf should they become incapable of making those decisions themselves.
• Living Will: A living will outlines an individual's preferences regarding the types of medical treatment they wish to receive or refuse in the event they are unable to communicate their wishes directly, particularly concerning end-of-life care.
• Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (MOLST): Similar to a DNR, the MOLST is a more comprehensive document that covers a wider range of life-sustaining treatments beyond resuscitation, such as intubation, mechanical ventilation, and artificial nutrition.
• Power of Attorney (POA): While not exclusively a healthcare document, the POA allows an individual to designate an agent to make a variety of decisions on their behalf, including financial and, in some cases, medical decisions, depending on the powers granted.
• Emergency Medical Information Form: This form provides emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and doctors with immediate access to an individual's critical medical information, such as allergies, medications, and existing conditions, during an emergency.
• HIPAA Release Form: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) release form allows specified individuals to access an individual's medical records, ensuring loved ones and healthcare proxies are kept informed and can make informed decisions about the individual's care.
• Organ and Tissue Donation Registration: This form states an individual's wishes regarding the donation of their organs and tissues after death, thereby making a potentially life-saving difference for others.

Together, these documents provide a comprehensive framework to guide healthcare professionals and loved ones through difficult decisions during critical times. It's essential for individuals to discuss their healthcare wishes with their family and designated healthcare proxy to ensure their preferences are clearly understood and can be acted upon when necessary. Keeping these documents up to designating date and readily accessible can provide peace of mind to both the individual and their loved ones.

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order in New York shares similarities with an Advance Directive. Both documents allow individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their wishes. While a DNR specifically addresses the desire not to have CPR or other life-saving measures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, an Advance Directive can provide broader instructions on various medical treatments and interventions the individual may or may not want.

The Health Care Proxy is another document related to a DNR Order, as both involve making crucial health care decisions ahead of time. However, instead of detailing specific medical treatments, a Health Care Proxy allows an individual to appoint someone else to make health care decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so themselves. This appointed proxy can then consent to or refuse any treatment, including the implementation of a DNR, based on their understanding of the individual’s wishes.

Living Wills are similar to DNR Orders because they both concern end-of-life care decisions. A Living Will, however, provides a more comprehensive plan for end-of-life care, including preferences about life support, artificial hydration, and nutrition, whereas a DNR focuses solely on the refusal of CPR and other resuscitative measures.

Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (MOLST) forms are closely related to DNR Orders. Both are medical orders that are signed by a healthcare professional and reflect a patient’s preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments, including resuscitation. The MOLST form, however, covers a broader range of treatments beyond resuscitation, such as antibiotic use and tube feeding preferences.

The POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form, similar to the MOLST, is another parallel document to the DNR Order. It is designed for seriously ill patients who wish to outline their preferences for life-sustaining treatments. Like a DNR, a POLST comes into play in emergency situations where immediate medical decisions need to be made, detailing specific interventions the patient does and does not want.

A Power of Attorney (POA) for Healthcare, while serving a different primary function, is indirectly related to a DNR Order. A POA for Healthcare designates another person to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the individual. This can include the decision to implement a DNR order. The primary difference lies in the scope, with a POA covering a wide range of healthcare decisions beyond resuscitation preferences.

The Five Wishes document expands on the concept of a DNR by addressing a person’s personal, emotional, and spiritual needs, along with their medical wishes at the end of life. It acts as a living will but is designed to be more comprehensive, covering aspects such as the patient’s desires for comfort care, treatment, services, and how they want to be treated by others.

Lastly, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Do Not Resuscitate Order also parallels the hospital DNR but is specifically for emergency medical services outside of a hospital setting. It instructs emergency personnel not to perform CPR or other life-saving measures if a patient experiences cardiac arrest. This document is crucial for those who wish to ensure their DNR preferences are respected, even in situations outside of a healthcare facility.

Completing the New York Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is a critical process that should be approached with both clarity and sensitivity. This document allows individuals to express their wishes regarding resuscitation in the event that their heart stops beating or they stop breathing. Here are important dos and don’ts to consider:

• Consult with a healthcare provider – Before filling out the form, it’s essential to discuss your medical condition and the implications of a DNR order with a healthcare professional.
• Ensure accuracy in personal information – Double-check all personal information (e.g., full name, date of birth) to prevent any potential confusion.
• Use clear, unambiguous language – Avoid misunderstandings by stating your wishes in simple, direct terms.
• Review state-specific requirements – Familiarize yourself with New York's specific regulations and guidelines surrounding DNR orders to ensure compliance.
• Sign and date the form – Ensure the form is legally binding by correctly signing and dating it, as required.
• Inform family members or caregivers – Discuss your decision with close family members or caregivers to prepare them for respecting your wishes.

• Rush the decision-making process – Take your time to fully understand the implications of a DNR order and ensure it aligns with your values and wishes.
• Fill out the form alone – While it’s your decision, getting input from medical professionals or trusted advisors can provide valuable insight.
• Leave sections incomplete – An incomplete form can lead to uncertainty and may not be legally recognized.
• Use technical medical jargon – Stick to layman’s terms to ensure that your wishes are clearly understood by anyone who might read the form.
• Forget to update the form – If your wishes or health condition change, make sure to update your DNR order accordingly.
• Fail to keep the form accessible – Ensure the form is easily accessible to family members and healthcare providers to ensure your wishes are followed.

Taking these steps can help ensure that your choices are clearly indicated and respected, providing peace of mind to both you and your loved ones.

When it comes to the New York Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, many misconceptions can cloud people's understanding of its purpose and use. A DNR order is a medical order to not perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event a person's heart stops or they stop breathing. Here are nine common misconceptions about the New York DNR form explained:

• It's only for the elderly. People might think a DNR is exclusive to the elderly, but it can apply to anyone with a serious health condition where CPR would not be beneficial or is not desired by the patient.
• It means no medical treatment at all. A DNR order strictly refers to not initiating CPR. It does not mean refusing other types of medical interventions, treatments, or care that could improve the quality of life or address specific health issues.
• Doctors decide if a patient needs a DNR order. While doctors provide guidance and information, the decision to have a DNR in place lies with the patient or their healthcare proxy/decision-maker, based on the patient's wishes and values.
• Having a DNR means you can't be hospitalized. This is a misconception. Patients with a DNR order can still be hospitalized and receive medical treatments. The DNR simply instructs healthcare professionals not to perform CPR.
• A DNR is permanent and cannot be changed. Patients or their designated decision-makers can revoke or modify a DNR order at any time based on changes in the patient's health condition or wishes.
• All family members must agree for a DNR to be implemented. While it's important to discuss end-of-life wishes with family, the decision to implement a DNR order rests with the patient and/or their healthcare proxy, not the entire family.
• DNR orders are only relevant in a hospital setting. DNR orders also apply in non-hospital settings, such as at home or in a nursing home. It's crucial to make sure that the DNR order is easily accessible to healthcare professionals in these settings.
• Signing a DNR means giving up on life. Choosing a DNR order is a personal decision that often reflects the desire for a natural death without aggressive medical interventions. It's not about giving up but about controlling the terms of one’s end-of-life care.
• If you have a DNR, emergency services won't help you. Emergency services can still provide comfort measures, oxygen, pain relief, and other non-invasive treatments. The DNR specifically guides actions regarding CPR.

Understanding the facts about DNR orders helps patients and their families make informed decisions that align with their health conditions and personal values. Conversation and careful thought are key when considering a DNR, ensuring that choices about end-of-life care are respected and followed.

The New York Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is an essential legal document for individuals who wish to decline resuscitation attempts in the event they stop breathing or their heart stops. Completing and using this form correctly is crucial to ensure that personal healthcare preferences are honored. Here are four key takeaways about filling out and using this form:

• Consultation with a Healthcare Professional is Required: Before completing the DNR Order form, it's mandatory to consult with a licensed healthcare professional. This ensures that the individual understands the implications of a DNR order and that the decision is informed by current medical advice.
• Accuracy is Crucial: Every detail in the form must be filled out accurately. Providing precise information, such as the individual’s full name, date of birth, and specific medical conditions, prevents potential confusion and ensures the form is honored by medical personnel.
• Signature Requirements Must be Met: The DNR order must be signed by the individual or their legally authorized decision-maker if the individual is unable to sign for themselves. Additionally, the signature of the consulting healthcare professional is also required to validate the form.
• Accessibility of the DNR Order: Once completed and signed, it's imperative that the DNR order is kept in a location where it is easily accessible to family members and healthcare providers. In cases of emergency, the visibility of the order can be the deciding factor in its implementation.