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Content Overview

In Florida, the Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) form plays a crucial role in end-of-life care decisions, allowing individuals to express their wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a medical emergency. This legally recognized document is designed for those who prefer to forgo cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other life-sustaining treatments. It is essential for patients to understand that the DNRO must be completed and signed by a licensed physician, ensuring that it reflects informed consent. The form should be readily accessible, often kept in a visible location, such as on the refrigerator or with medical records, to ensure that emergency responders can easily find it. Additionally, the DNRO must be presented in a specific format, typically printed on bright yellow paper, to ensure its visibility and to distinguish it from other documents. Understanding the implications of this form can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare preferences, ultimately leading to a more personalized approach to medical treatment during critical moments.

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Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order

This Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is created in accordance with Florida Statutes, Chapter 401. It is intended to guide healthcare providers in the event of a medical emergency.

Patient Information:

  • Name: ______________________________
  • Date of Birth: ______________________
  • Address: ____________________________
  • Phone Number: ______________________

Physician Information:

  • Physician's Name: ____________________
  • Physician's License Number: __________
  • Contact Number: _____________________

Patient's Wishes:

The patient named above does not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest.

Signature:

By signing below, the patient or their legal representative confirms that this DNR Order reflects the patient's wishes.

Patient/Legal Representative Signature: __________________________

Date: __________________________

Witnesses:

  1. Witness 1 Signature: ______________________ Date: ____________
  2. Witness 2 Signature: ______________________ Date: ____________

This DNR Order should be placed prominently in the patient's medical records and communicated to all healthcare providers involved in the patient's care.

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PDF Form Details

Fact Name Description
Definition A Florida Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is a legal document that instructs medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a person's heart stops or they stop breathing.
Governing Law The DNR Order is governed by Florida Statutes, specifically Chapter 401.45, which outlines the requirements and procedures for creating and implementing a DNR Order.
Eligibility Any adult who is capable of making their own medical decisions can create a DNR Order, provided they understand the implications of the order.
Form Requirements The DNR Order must be completed on a specific form provided by the Florida Department of Health and must be signed by the patient and their physician.
Revocation A DNR Order can be revoked at any time by the patient or their legal representative. This can be done verbally or by destroying the document.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Emergency medical personnel are required to honor a valid DNR Order. They will check for the presence of the order before initiating resuscitation efforts.
Placement of the Form It is advisable to keep the DNR Order in an easily accessible location, such as on the refrigerator or with other important medical documents, to ensure it is readily available in an emergency.
Healthcare Proxy Individuals may also designate a healthcare proxy to make medical decisions on their behalf, which can include the decision to issue a DNR Order.
Public Awareness Public education about DNR Orders is crucial. Many people may not be aware of the option or the implications of having such an order in place.

Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order: Usage Guidelines

Completing the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order form is an important step in ensuring your healthcare preferences are respected. This form allows individuals to express their wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a medical emergency. It is essential to approach this process thoughtfully and carefully.

  1. Obtain the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order form. You can find it on the Florida Department of Health website or request a copy from your healthcare provider.
  2. Fill in your personal information at the top of the form. This includes your full name, date of birth, and address.
  3. Identify your healthcare surrogate, if you have one. Include their name and contact information, or indicate if you do not have a surrogate.
  4. Clearly state your wishes regarding resuscitation. The form will provide options for you to select, such as whether you want resuscitation efforts or not.
  5. Sign and date the form. Your signature is crucial as it validates your wishes.
  6. Have the form witnessed. Florida law requires that the form be signed in the presence of two witnesses or a notary public. Ensure that the witnesses are not related to you or your healthcare surrogate.
  7. Make copies of the completed form. Keep one for your records and provide copies to your healthcare provider and any family members or friends who should be aware of your wishes.

After completing the form, it is advisable to discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider and loved ones. This ensures that everyone understands your preferences and can act accordingly in a medical situation.

Your Questions, Answered

What is a Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO)?

A Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that allows a person to refuse resuscitation efforts in the event of a cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. This order must be signed by a physician and is intended for individuals who wish to avoid life-saving measures such as CPR, intubation, or other advanced life support interventions. It is important for this order to be clearly understood by both the patient and their healthcare providers.

Who can request a Do Not Resuscitate Order in Florida?

In Florida, any adult who is capable of making their own medical decisions can request a DNRO. This includes individuals with terminal illnesses, those in a persistent vegetative state, or anyone who wishes to avoid aggressive medical interventions. Additionally, a legal guardian or healthcare surrogate may also request a DNRO on behalf of an individual who is unable to make decisions for themselves.

How do I obtain a Do Not Resuscitate Order in Florida?

To obtain a DNRO, you must first consult with a physician. The physician will assess your medical condition and discuss your wishes regarding resuscitation. If you and your physician agree that a DNRO is appropriate, the physician will complete and sign the form. After it is signed, you should keep the original document in a safe place and provide copies to your healthcare providers and family members.

Is a Do Not Resuscitate Order valid in all healthcare settings?

Yes, a valid Florida DNRO is recognized in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and emergency medical services. However, it is crucial to ensure that the DNRO is properly completed and signed by a physician. Emergency medical personnel are trained to honor these orders, but it is advisable to keep the document accessible and inform family members and caregivers about its existence to prevent any confusion during emergencies.

Can a Do Not Resuscitate Order be revoked?

Yes, a DNRO can be revoked at any time by the individual who created it. This can be done verbally or in writing. It is important to communicate your decision to revoke the order to your healthcare providers and family members. If you wish to create a new DNRO after revocation, you will need to follow the same process of consultation with a physician and completing the necessary paperwork.

Common mistakes

  1. Not signing the form. The Do Not Resuscitate Order must be signed by the patient or their legal representative to be valid.

  2. Failing to date the form. A missing date can lead to confusion about the order's validity.

  3. Using outdated forms. Ensure that the most current version of the Do Not Resuscitate Order form is being used.

  4. Not providing clear identification. The form should include the patient's full name and any relevant identification numbers to avoid misinterpretation.

  5. Overlooking witness signatures. In some cases, a witness signature may be required for the order to be enforceable.

  6. Not discussing the order with healthcare providers. Communication with medical professionals is essential to ensure that everyone understands the patient's wishes.

  7. Neglecting to review the order periodically. Changes in health status or personal wishes may necessitate updates to the order.

  8. Assuming the form is only for terminal illnesses. The Do Not Resuscitate Order can apply in various medical situations, not just terminal conditions.

Documents used along the form

When considering end-of-life care options, it is important to be aware of various documents that can help ensure your wishes are respected. The Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) form is one such document, but it often works in conjunction with other forms. Below are several key documents that you might encounter or wish to consider alongside the DNRO.

  • Advance Directive: This document outlines your preferences for medical treatment in situations where you may not be able to communicate your wishes. It can include instructions about life-sustaining treatments and appoint a healthcare proxy to make decisions on your behalf.
  • Living Will: A living will specifically details your wishes regarding medical treatment in scenarios of terminal illness or irreversible conditions. It serves as a guide for healthcare providers and loved ones about the types of interventions you do or do not want.
  • Healthcare Surrogate Designation: This form allows you to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions for you if you become incapacitated. It is crucial to choose a trusted individual who understands your values and preferences.
  • Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): This is a medical order that specifies the types of medical treatments you want or do not want. It is typically used for patients with serious illnesses and is designed to be more actionable than an advance directive.
  • Do Not Hospitalize (DNH) Order: This document indicates that you do not wish to be hospitalized for treatment, even in emergencies. It is particularly relevant for individuals who prefer to receive care in a home or palliative setting.

Understanding these documents can provide peace of mind. They help ensure that your healthcare preferences are honored and that your loved ones are not left making difficult decisions during challenging times. It is advisable to discuss these options with family members and healthcare providers to ensure everyone is aligned with your wishes.

Similar forms

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is an important document that outlines a person's wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. Several other documents serve similar purposes in expressing healthcare preferences. Here are six documents that are comparable to a DNR Order:

  • Advance Healthcare Directive: This document allows individuals to specify their healthcare preferences in advance, including decisions about resuscitation and other life-sustaining treatments.
  • Living Will: A living will is a type of advance directive that specifically addresses an individual's wishes regarding end-of-life care, including the use of resuscitation methods.
  • Healthcare Power of Attorney: This document designates a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on behalf of an individual if they become unable to communicate their wishes.
  • Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): A POLST form translates a patient’s preferences into actionable medical orders, addressing resuscitation and other critical treatments.
  • Do Not Intubate (DNI) Order: Similar to a DNR, a DNI specifically prohibits the use of intubation and mechanical ventilation, while still allowing other medical interventions.
  • Patient Preferences Record: This document provides a comprehensive overview of an individual's preferences for medical treatment and care, including their stance on resuscitation efforts.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure that your wishes are clearly communicated. Here are five key do's and don'ts to consider:

  • Do ensure that the form is signed by a qualified physician.
  • Do discuss your wishes with family members and caregivers before completing the form.
  • Do keep the completed form in an easily accessible location.
  • Don't use the form if you are not certain about your decision regarding resuscitation.
  • Don't forget to review and update the form as your health situation changes.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Florida Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is crucial for individuals and families making end-of-life decisions. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are nine common misconceptions about the Florida DNR Order:

  1. A DNR means no medical care will be provided.

    This is not true. A DNR only indicates that resuscitation efforts should not be made in the event of cardiac arrest. Other medical treatments can still be administered.

  2. All healthcare providers must follow the DNR order.

    While most healthcare providers are required to honor a DNR, there may be exceptions in certain situations, such as in hospitals where protocols differ.

  3. A DNR is only for terminally ill patients.

    This is a common misconception. Individuals of any age or health status can choose to have a DNR if they do not wish to undergo resuscitation.

  4. You can’t change your mind once a DNR is signed.

    In fact, individuals can revoke a DNR order at any time, as long as they are mentally competent to do so.

  5. A DNR order is the same as a living will.

    These documents serve different purposes. A living will outlines specific medical treatments you do or do not want, while a DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts.

  6. Having a DNR means you are giving up on life.

    This is a misunderstanding. A DNR reflects a personal choice about the nature of medical interventions, not a desire to end life.

  7. DNR orders are only valid in Florida.

    A Florida DNR is recognized in other states, but it’s wise to check local laws, as some states may have different requirements or forms.

  8. Once a DNR is in place, it is always in effect.

    A DNR order is typically valid until it is revoked or until the individual’s condition changes significantly.

  9. Anyone can sign a DNR order for someone else.

    Only the individual or their legally authorized representative can sign a DNR order. This ensures that the person’s wishes are respected.

By clarifying these misconceptions, individuals can make informed decisions regarding their healthcare preferences. It’s essential to have open discussions with family and healthcare providers about DNR orders to ensure that everyone understands and respects your wishes.

Key takeaways

Filling out a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form in Florida is an important step for individuals who wish to express their healthcare preferences. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

  • The DNR Order form must be signed by a licensed physician to be valid.
  • It is essential to discuss your wishes with family members and healthcare providers before completing the form.
  • The form should be kept in an accessible location, such as on the refrigerator or with medical records.
  • Anyone can request a DNR Order, but it is most commonly used by individuals with serious health conditions.
  • Emergency medical personnel are required to follow the DNR Order when it is presented at the scene.
  • Review and update your DNR Order regularly, especially if your health status changes.
  • Understand that a DNR Order only applies to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and does not affect other medical treatments.