Attorney-Approved Do Not Resuscitate Order Document for North Carolina

The North Carolina Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is a critical document for individuals who wish to refuse resuscitation in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Along with this form, several other documents may be relevant to ensure that a person's healthcare wishes are respected. Below is a list of additional forms and documents commonly used in conjunction with the DNR Order.

• Advance Directive: This document outlines a person's healthcare preferences, including decisions about medical treatments and end-of-life care. It can provide guidance for healthcare providers when the individual is unable to communicate their wishes.
• Health Care Power of Attorney: This legal document allows an individual to appoint someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. It is essential for ensuring that a trusted person can advocate for the individual's healthcare preferences.
• Living Will: A living will specifies what medical treatments a person does or does not want in situations where they are terminally ill or permanently unconscious. It complements the DNR Order by providing additional clarity on treatment preferences.
• Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment (POST): This form details a patient's treatment preferences and is signed by a physician. It is designed for individuals with serious health conditions and ensures that their wishes are followed in various medical situations.
• Patient Identification Card: This card serves as a quick reference for medical personnel to identify a patient's DNR status. It is often carried by the patient or their family members to ensure immediate access to important information.
• California Civil form: To properly initiate a civil case in California, ensure you have the necessary documents, including the Civil Case Cover Sheet (CM-010), which can be found at califroniatemplates.com/.
• Do Not Hospitalize Order: This document expresses a patient's wish to avoid hospitalization under certain circumstances, particularly when it conflicts with their end-of-life care preferences. It can be used alongside the DNR Order for clarity.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Protocols: These protocols provide guidance to EMS personnel regarding the treatment of patients with DNR orders. Understanding these protocols is crucial for ensuring that emergency responders respect the patient's wishes.
• Medication Orders: This document outlines specific medications a patient wishes to receive or avoid. It can be important for managing pain and other symptoms in accordance with the patient's preferences, especially in end-of-life care.

Understanding these documents and their purposes can significantly enhance the ability to communicate healthcare wishes effectively. Each form plays a vital role in ensuring that an individual's preferences are honored throughout their medical care journey.

Filling out and using the North Carolina Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) form is an important decision for individuals and their families. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

• The DNR form must be signed by a licensed physician to be valid.
• It is crucial to discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider and loved ones before completing the form.
• The form should be kept in an easily accessible location, such as with other important medical documents.
• Patients can revoke or modify the DNR order at any time, as long as they are competent to make decisions.
• Emergency medical personnel are required to follow the DNR order when it is presented in a medical emergency.
• Understanding the implications of a DNR order is essential; it does not affect other treatments, such as pain management or comfort care.