Legal Do Not Resuscitate Order Document for the State of Pennsylvania

When filling out the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it is crucial to approach the process with care. Here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

• Do ensure that you understand the implications of a DNR order. This decision can have significant consequences for medical treatment.
• Do consult with healthcare professionals. They can provide valuable insights and help clarify any questions you may have.
• Do communicate your wishes clearly. Make sure that your family and healthcare providers are aware of your decision.
• Do keep the DNR order in an accessible location. It should be easily found by medical personnel in case of an emergency.

• Don't fill out the form without considering your options. Take the time to reflect on your values and preferences.
• Don't assume that verbal instructions are sufficient. A signed DNR order is necessary to ensure your wishes are respected.
• Don't neglect to update the form if your circumstances change. Life events may alter your preferences regarding resuscitation.
• Don't forget to discuss your decision with loved ones. They should be informed and prepared to support your choices.

• Living Will: A living will outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate. It specifies what types of medical interventions should or should not be used.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care: This document allows someone to make medical decisions on behalf of another person. It is similar to a DNR in that it addresses healthcare preferences, especially in emergencies.
• Georgia WC-100 Form: The Georgia WC-100 form is essential for initiating mediation for workers' compensation claims. You can find it at georgiapdf.com/georgia-wc-100.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for treatments, similar to a DNR. It is designed for patients with serious illnesses and is actionable by healthcare providers.
• Advance Healthcare Directive: This combines a living will and a durable power of attorney. It provides guidance on medical decisions and appoints a representative, making it comprehensive like a DNR.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: A DNI order specifically instructs healthcare providers not to insert a breathing tube. It complements a DNR by addressing respiratory interventions.
• Comfort Care Order: This document focuses on providing comfort rather than aggressive treatment. It aligns with the principles of a DNR by prioritizing quality of life over life-sustaining measures.
• Patient Advocate Designation: This allows a person to appoint someone to advocate for their healthcare choices. It works similarly to a DNR by ensuring that a patient's wishes are respected during medical emergencies.

Understanding the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is crucial for individuals who wish to express their healthcare preferences. Here are some key takeaways:

1. The DNR order allows individuals to refuse CPR and other resuscitation efforts in case of cardiac or respiratory arrest.
2. It must be completed and signed by a physician to be valid.
3. Patients or their legal representatives should discuss their wishes with healthcare providers before filling out the form.
4. Once completed, the DNR order should be kept in a prominent place, such as with other important medical documents.
5. Emergency medical personnel are required to honor the DNR order when it is properly completed and signed.
6. Individuals can revoke or change their DNR order at any time, but it must be done in writing.
7. It is essential to inform family members about the DNR order to avoid confusion during a medical emergency.

Filling out the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) form can be a crucial step in ensuring that your healthcare wishes are respected. However, mistakes can easily occur during this process. Understanding these common errors can help you avoid complications in the future.

One common mistake is not discussing your wishes with family members or healthcare providers before completing the form. Open communication is essential. Without it, loved ones may be unaware of your preferences and might struggle to make decisions in a stressful situation.

Another frequent error is failing to sign and date the form. The DNR order must be signed by you or your authorized representative. If the form is not dated, it may not be considered valid. Always double-check that all required signatures are present.

Some people overlook the importance of including specific medical information. The DNR form should clearly state your medical condition and treatment preferences. Vague descriptions can lead to confusion and may not accurately reflect your wishes.

Additionally, using outdated forms can be a significant mistake. Always ensure you are using the most current version of the DNR order. Regulations and requirements can change, so it’s essential to have the latest form.

Another issue arises when individuals fail to provide copies of the completed form to their healthcare providers. It’s not enough to fill out the DNR order; you must also ensure that your medical team has access to it. This way, they can honor your wishes when necessary.

Some people neglect to review the form periodically. Life circumstances and health conditions can change. Regularly reviewing your DNR order ensures that it still aligns with your current wishes.

Inaccurate personal information is also a common mistake. Double-check your name, address, and other identifying details. Errors in this information can lead to complications when the form is needed.

Another mistake is not understanding the implications of a DNR order. It’s important to know that a DNR does not mean you will not receive any medical care. It only indicates that you do not want resuscitation efforts if your heart stops or you stop breathing.

Lastly, some individuals may forget to inform their emergency contacts about the DNR order. This step is crucial, as emergency personnel need to be aware of your wishes. Make sure those close to you understand your decisions and where to find the form.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate Order accurately reflects your wishes and is honored when the time comes.