Valid Do Not Resuscitate Order Template for Washington

Understanding the Washington Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is crucial for individuals and families facing serious medical decisions. Unfortunately, several misconceptions can lead to confusion and anxiety. Below are eight common misconceptions about the DNR Order form, along with clarifications for each.

• A DNR means that no medical care will be provided. This is not true. A DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac arrest. Other medical treatments can still be administered based on the patient's wishes and needs.
• Only terminally ill patients can have a DNR. This misconception is misleading. While many people with terminal conditions choose to have a DNR, anyone can request one if they wish to avoid resuscitation efforts, regardless of their health status.
• A DNR is a legal document that must be signed by a lawyer. In Washington, a DNR form does not require legal representation. It can be completed by the patient or their authorized representative and does not need a lawyer's signature to be valid.
• Having a DNR means giving up on life. Many people believe that a DNR signifies a desire to die. In reality, it reflects a person's preference for the type of medical interventions they want or do not want during a medical emergency.
• A DNR is only effective in hospitals. This is incorrect. A DNR can be honored in various settings, including at home, in nursing facilities, and during emergency medical services, as long as the appropriate documentation is available.
• You cannot change your mind about a DNR once it is signed. This is a common misconception. Individuals can revoke or modify their DNR orders at any time, provided they communicate their wishes clearly and follow the necessary procedures.
• All healthcare providers are familiar with DNR orders. While many healthcare professionals understand DNR orders, not all may be fully aware of a specific patient's wishes. It is essential to communicate the existence of a DNR order to all relevant parties.
• A DNR order is the same as an advance directive. Although both documents relate to medical care preferences, they serve different purposes. An advance directive outlines broader healthcare wishes, while a DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts.

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

When considering the Washington Do Not Resuscitate Order form, there are several important points to keep in mind:

• The form must be completed and signed by a licensed physician. This ensures that the order is valid and recognized by medical personnel.
• It is essential to discuss your wishes with family members and healthcare providers. Open communication helps to avoid confusion during critical moments.
• Once the form is filled out, it should be kept in a visible location, such as on the refrigerator or in a medical file. This makes it easily accessible to emergency responders.
• The order can be revoked at any time. If your preferences change, simply notify your healthcare provider and remove or destroy the original document.

Filling out a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form can be an emotional and significant task. It’s important to approach it thoughtfully. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do when completing the Washington DNR Order form:

• Do discuss your wishes with your healthcare provider to ensure clarity.
• Do make sure to include your full name and date of birth on the form.
• Do sign and date the form in the appropriate sections.
• Do share copies of the completed form with your family and healthcare team.
• Do review the form periodically to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

• Don’t leave any sections blank; incomplete forms can lead to confusion.
• Don’t use vague language; be clear about your intentions.
• Don’t forget to check state-specific requirements that might affect the form.
• Don’t assume that verbal agreements are sufficient; always document your wishes.

Taking the time to thoughtfully complete the DNR Order form can ensure that your healthcare preferences are honored when it matters most.

1. Not including the patient's full name. It is essential to write the complete name to avoid confusion.

2. Forgetting to sign the form. The patient's signature is necessary to validate the order.

3. Not dating the form. Including the date helps to establish when the order was created.

4. Failing to provide a witness signature. A witness is often required to confirm the authenticity of the document.

5. Using incorrect or outdated forms. Always ensure that the latest version of the form is being used.

6. Leaving out the medical provider's information. This information is needed for proper communication with healthcare professionals.

7. Not discussing the order with family members. It is important for family to understand the patient's wishes regarding resuscitation.