Printable Do Not Resuscitate Order Form for Pennsylvania

A Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) form is a legal document that allows individuals to express their wishes regarding medical treatment in the event of a life-threatening situation. By completing this form, a person can indicate that they do not want resuscitation efforts, such as CPR, to be performed if their heart stops beating or they stop breathing. This important decision ensures that one's preferences for end-of-life care are respected and followed by medical professionals.

Modify Do Not Resuscitate Order

In Pennsylvania, the Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals receive the medical care they desire at the end of life. This form allows patients to communicate their wishes regarding resuscitation efforts in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest. It is essential for individuals to understand that completing a DNR order means they are choosing not to receive certain life-saving interventions, such as CPR or mechanical ventilation. The form must be signed by both the patient and a physician, affirming that the decision is informed and voluntary. Additionally, it is important to note that the DNR order must be readily accessible to medical personnel, as it guides their actions during emergencies. Families and caregivers should also be involved in discussions about the DNR to ensure everyone understands the patient's preferences. By taking the time to complete this form, individuals can ensure their healthcare aligns with their values and wishes, providing peace of mind for both themselves and their loved ones.

File Characteristics

Fact Name	Details
Definition	The Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is a legal document that instructs medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest.
Governing Law	The DNR Order in Pennsylvania is governed by the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically Title 20, Chapter 54.
Eligibility	Any adult who is competent to make healthcare decisions can complete a DNR Order. Additionally, a parent or guardian can complete one for a minor.
Form Requirements	The DNR Order must be signed by the patient or their authorized representative and a physician. It must also be printed on a specific form provided by the state.
Revocation	A DNR Order can be revoked at any time by the patient or their authorized representative. This can be done verbally or in writing.
Emergency Medical Services	Emergency medical personnel must honor a valid DNR Order. If the order is not present or is unclear, they are required to perform CPR.
Placement	The DNR Order should be placed in a visible location, such as on the refrigerator or attached to the patient’s medical records, to ensure it is easily accessible.
Impact on Care	Having a DNR Order does not affect other aspects of medical care. Patients will still receive all other necessary treatments and palliative care.

Other Common State-specific Do Not Resuscitate Order Templates

Dnr Form - A helpful resource for families to understand the patient's end-of-life wishes.

Georgia Dnr Form - Understanding a DNR's implications is critical for caregivers and families.

Illinois Do Not Resuscitate Law - Used to communicate a patient's desires to family and emergency responders.

▼ Do Not Resuscitate Order PDF Form

Misconceptions

Understanding the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is crucial for individuals and families making healthcare decisions. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are six common misunderstandings regarding this important document:

A DNR means no medical care will be provided. This is not true. A DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts, such as CPR, but does not prevent other forms of medical treatment or care from being administered.
A DNR is only for terminally ill patients. Many people believe that only those with terminal conditions should have a DNR. In reality, anyone can choose to have a DNR based on their personal healthcare wishes, regardless of their current health status.
A DNR is a permanent decision. Some think that once a DNR is established, it cannot be changed. In fact, individuals can revoke or modify their DNR at any time, reflecting changes in their health or personal preferences.
A DNR is automatically recognized in all healthcare settings. While Pennsylvania law recognizes DNR orders, not all facilities may be familiar with them. It is important to ensure that the DNR is communicated effectively to all healthcare providers involved.
Only doctors can complete a DNR. This is a misconception. While a physician must sign the DNR order, patients or their legal representatives can initiate the process and express their wishes regarding resuscitation.
A DNR is the same as a living will. Although both documents relate to healthcare decisions, they serve different purposes. A living will outlines an individual's preferences for medical treatment in various situations, while a DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts.

By clarifying these misconceptions, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare preferences and ensure that their wishes are respected in critical situations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it is important to follow certain guidelines. Here are some things you should and shouldn't do:

Do consult with your healthcare provider before completing the form.
Do ensure that you understand what a DNR order means for your medical care.
Do clearly state your wishes on the form.
Do sign and date the form in the appropriate sections.

Don't fill out the form under pressure or without understanding its implications.
Don't forget to discuss your decision with family members or loved ones.
Don't leave any sections of the form incomplete, as this may cause confusion.
Don't assume that a verbal agreement is enough; always use the official form.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Pennsylvania Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) form is an important process for individuals who wish to express their preferences regarding medical treatment in emergency situations. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

The DNR form allows individuals to indicate that they do not want cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if their heart stops or if they stop breathing.
It is essential to have the DNR form signed by a physician, as this validates the order and ensures it is recognized by medical personnel.
Individuals must clearly understand the implications of a DNR order. It does not mean that all medical care will be withheld; it specifically pertains to resuscitation efforts.
The DNR form should be easily accessible, ideally kept in a location where medical personnel can find it quickly, such as on the refrigerator or in a medical file.
It is advisable to discuss your wishes with family members and healthcare providers to ensure everyone understands your preferences.
Reviewing and updating the DNR order periodically is important, especially if there are changes in health status or personal preferences.