Official Do Not Resuscitate Order Template for Washington State

Understanding the Washington Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion and anxiety. Here are six common misunderstandings:

1. A DNR means you will not receive any medical care. Many people think that a DNR order implies a complete withdrawal of medical treatment. In reality, it only indicates that you do not wish to receive CPR in the event of cardiac arrest. Other medical interventions and treatments will still be provided.
2. A DNR is only for terminally ill patients. While DNR orders are often associated with end-of-life care, they can be appropriate for anyone who wishes to avoid resuscitation, regardless of their health status. It’s a personal choice based on individual values and preferences.
3. You need a lawyer to create a DNR. Some individuals believe that legal representation is necessary to establish a DNR order. However, in Washington, you can complete the DNR form without legal assistance. It’s designed to be accessible and straightforward.
4. A DNR is permanent and cannot be changed. Many assume that once a DNR is established, it cannot be altered. In fact, you can revoke or modify your DNR order at any time, as long as you are capable of making your own healthcare decisions.
5. Healthcare providers will ignore your wishes if they don’t agree with your DNR. There is a misconception that healthcare professionals may disregard a DNR order if they personally disagree with it. However, medical staff are legally obligated to respect a valid DNR order, ensuring that your wishes are honored.
6. You must have a DNR order in place to refuse treatment. Some people think that a DNR is necessary to refuse all forms of treatment. However, patients have the right to refuse any medical intervention, regardless of whether a DNR is in place. Communication with healthcare providers is key.

By clarifying these misconceptions, individuals can approach their healthcare decisions with confidence and ensure their preferences are respected.

1. Not discussing the decision with family or loved ones. It's crucial to have open conversations about end-of-life wishes.

2. Failing to complete all required sections of the form. Incomplete forms can lead to confusion and may not be honored by medical personnel.

3. Using outdated versions of the form. Always ensure you have the most current version to avoid legal issues.

4. Not signing and dating the form. Without a signature and date, the document may not be considered valid.

5. Overlooking the need for a witness or notary. Some versions of the form require a witness signature to be legally binding.

6. Misunderstanding the implications of the order. It's essential to fully understand what a Do Not Resuscitate Order entails and how it affects medical care.

7. Neglecting to provide copies to relevant parties. Distributing copies to healthcare providers and family members ensures everyone is informed of your wishes.

When filling out the Washington Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it's important to approach the task with care and consideration. Here are some things you should and shouldn't do to ensure that your wishes are clearly communicated.

• Do discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider to ensure understanding.
• Do have open conversations with family members about your decision.
• Do fill out the form completely and accurately to avoid confusion.
• Do keep a copy of the completed form in an easily accessible location.
• Don't rush through the form; take your time to consider your choices.
• Don't forget to sign and date the form, as it is crucial for validity.
• Don't assume that verbal agreements are enough; written documentation is necessary.
• Don't neglect to review the form periodically, as your wishes may change over time.

The Advance Directive is a legal document that allows individuals to outline their healthcare preferences in advance. Like the Washington Do Not Resuscitate Order, it provides guidance to medical professionals and family members about a person's wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments. Both documents aim to respect the individual’s choices in critical situations, ensuring that their preferences are honored even if they are unable to communicate them at the time of care.

A Living Will is another important document that shares similarities with the Do Not Resuscitate Order. It specifies the types of medical treatments an individual wishes to receive or avoid in the event of a terminal illness or incapacitation. While the DNR focuses specifically on resuscitation efforts, the Living Will covers a broader range of medical interventions, providing a comprehensive view of a person’s healthcare desires.

The Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form is designed for individuals with serious health conditions. This document goes beyond the Do Not Resuscitate Order by detailing specific medical treatments a patient wishes to receive or decline. POLST is actionable and must be followed by healthcare providers, ensuring that a patient’s preferences are respected in emergency situations.

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The Health Care Proxy allows an individual to designate someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so. This document complements the Do Not Resuscitate Order by providing a trusted person with the authority to interpret and act on the individual’s wishes, ensuring that their healthcare preferences are communicated and honored.