Free Do Not Resuscitate Order Form for Colorado

What is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order in Colorado?

A Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) is a legal document that allows individuals to express their wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a medical emergency. In Colorado, this order specifically instructs healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other life-saving measures if a person’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing. It is important for individuals to discuss their wishes with family members and healthcare providers to ensure everyone understands their preferences regarding end-of-life care.

Who can request a DNR Order in Colorado?

In Colorado, any adult who is of sound mind can request a DNR Order. This includes individuals who are facing a terminal illness or have a condition that may lead to a medical emergency. Additionally, a legal representative, such as a healthcare proxy or power of attorney, can also request a DNR Order on behalf of someone who is unable to make decisions for themselves. It is crucial to have clear communication and documentation to ensure that the individual’s wishes are honored.

How do I obtain a DNR Order in Colorado?

To obtain a DNR Order in Colorado, individuals must fill out a specific form provided by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This form requires personal information, including the individual’s name, date of birth, and medical history. After completing the form, it must be signed by the individual and a physician. It is essential to keep copies of the signed DNR Order in easily accessible locations, such as with medical records or on the refrigerator, to ensure that emergency responders are aware of the individual’s wishes.

Is a DNR Order valid in all healthcare settings?

Yes, a DNR Order is generally valid across all healthcare settings in Colorado, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home care situations. However, it is important to inform all healthcare providers about the existence of the DNR Order. In some cases, specific healthcare facilities may have their own policies regarding DNR Orders, so it is advisable to check with the facility to ensure compliance and understanding of the order.

Can a DNR Order be revoked or changed?

Yes, individuals have the right to revoke or change their DNR Order at any time. This can be done by destroying the original document or by creating a new DNR Order that explicitly states the updated wishes. It is important to communicate any changes to family members and healthcare providers to avoid confusion during medical emergencies. Keeping everyone informed ensures that the individual’s current preferences are respected and followed.

1. Failing to include the patient’s full legal name. Ensure the name matches official identification.

2. Not providing the date of birth. This information helps to confirm the identity of the patient.

3. Leaving the physician's signature blank. A valid signature from a licensed physician is required.

4. Not specifying the date the form was completed. This is essential for the validity of the order.

5. Using outdated versions of the form. Always ensure you have the most current version available.

6. Failing to discuss the order with family members. Communication can prevent confusion and ensure everyone is informed.

7. Not keeping copies of the completed form. Retain copies for personal records and to share with healthcare providers.

8. Overlooking the need for witnesses. Some forms require signatures from witnesses to be valid.

9. Neglecting to review the form periodically. Changes in health status may require updates to the order.

10. Misunderstanding the implications of the order. Ensure clarity on what a Do Not Resuscitate Order means for care.

When considering end-of-life care, the Colorado Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is an important document. However, it is often accompanied by other forms and documents that provide comprehensive guidance for medical decisions. Below is a list of additional documents commonly used alongside the Colorado DNR Order.

• Advance Directive: This document outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their preferences. It typically includes instructions about life-sustaining treatments and appoints a healthcare proxy.
• Medical Power of Attorney: This legal document allows an individual to designate someone to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so. It ensures that a trusted person can advocate for their medical preferences.
• Living Will: A living will specifies the types of medical treatment a person does or does not want in the event of a terminal illness or irreversible condition. It provides clear guidance to healthcare providers and loved ones.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): This is a medical order that reflects a patient’s wishes regarding treatments such as resuscitation and intubation. It is intended for those with serious illnesses and is signed by a healthcare professional.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: This order specifies that a patient should not be intubated or placed on a ventilator in the event of respiratory failure. It is often used in conjunction with a DNR order.
• Hospital Transfer Form: This form is used when transferring a patient from one healthcare facility to another. It ensures that the receiving facility is aware of the patient’s DNR status and any other advance directives.

These documents work together to ensure that a person's healthcare preferences are respected and followed. Understanding each form's purpose can help individuals make informed decisions about their medical care and end-of-life wishes.

• Advance Directive: This document outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate their wishes. Like a DNR, it serves to guide healthcare providers in aligning treatment with the patient's values.
• Living Will: A living will specifies the types of medical treatments a person does or does not want at the end of life. It shares similarities with a DNR by expressing a patient's wishes regarding life-sustaining measures.
• Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This legal document designates someone to make healthcare decisions on behalf of an individual if they are incapacitated. It complements a DNR by ensuring that a trusted person can advocate for the patient's wishes.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): POLST is a medical order that outlines a patient’s preferences for treatment in emergency situations. It is similar to a DNR in that it provides clear instructions for emergency personnel.
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: A DNI order specifically instructs healthcare providers not to place a patient on a ventilator. Like a DNR, it reflects the patient's wishes regarding life support measures.
• Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST): This document is similar to POLST and outlines a patient's treatment preferences. It is designed to ensure that healthcare providers follow the patient’s wishes in critical situations.
• End-of-Life Care Plan: An end-of-life care plan provides a comprehensive overview of a patient's preferences for care as they approach death. It aligns with a DNR by emphasizing the importance of respecting patient choices.
• Comfort Care Order: This order focuses on providing comfort rather than aggressive treatment. Like a DNR, it prioritizes the patient's quality of life over invasive procedures.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) DNR Form: This specific form is used by emergency medical personnel to recognize a DNR order in pre-hospital settings. It functions similarly by ensuring that the patient's wishes are respected during emergencies.

When filling out the Colorado Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it’s important to approach the process with care and clarity. Here are some essential tips to consider, along with common pitfalls to avoid.

• Do discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider. Having an open conversation can help ensure your preferences are understood and respected.
• Do ensure that the form is signed and dated. This validates your wishes and makes the document official.
• Do keep copies of the completed form. Share them with your healthcare team and loved ones so everyone is informed.
• Do review your DNR order periodically. Life circumstances can change, and your preferences might need to be updated.
• Do understand the implications of the DNR order. Make sure you are fully aware of what it means for your medical care.

• Don't rush through the form. Take your time to ensure all information is accurate and reflects your wishes.
• Don't leave any sections blank. Incomplete forms can lead to confusion and may not be honored.
• Don't forget to discuss your decision with family members. They should be aware of your wishes to avoid misunderstandings.
• Don't assume that verbal agreements are enough. Written documentation is crucial for your wishes to be respected.
• Don't overlook state-specific requirements. Make sure your form complies with Colorado regulations to ensure its validity.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the process of completing a DNR order with confidence and clarity.

Understanding the Colorado Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is essential for patients and their families. Here are five common misconceptions about this important document:

1. A DNR order means no medical care at all.

   This is false. A DNR order specifically addresses resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac arrest. Patients with a DNR can still receive other forms of medical care, including pain management and comfort measures.

2. A DNR order is only for terminally ill patients.

   This misconception overlooks the fact that individuals of any age or health status may choose a DNR order. It is a personal decision based on individual values and preferences regarding end-of-life care.

3. A DNR order is permanent and cannot be changed.

   In reality, a DNR order can be revoked or modified at any time by the patient or their authorized representative. It’s important to communicate any changes to healthcare providers.

4. A DNR order must be signed by a physician to be valid.

   While a physician's signature is typically required for the DNR order to be legally recognized, patients can also express their wishes verbally to healthcare providers, who can then document those wishes appropriately.

5. Having a DNR order means you will die sooner.

   This belief is misleading. Studies show that having a DNR order does not hasten death. Instead, it ensures that patients receive care aligned with their wishes, which can lead to a more peaceful end-of-life experience.

Filling out and using the Colorado Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is an important process for individuals who wish to express their preferences regarding resuscitation efforts in medical emergencies. Here are some key takeaways:

• The DNR order must be signed by a licensed physician to be valid.
• Individuals can discuss their wishes with family members and healthcare providers to ensure everyone understands their preferences.
• It is crucial to keep the DNR order in an accessible location, such as on the refrigerator or with personal medical records.
• Emergency medical personnel are required to follow the DNR order as long as it is properly completed and signed.