Official Do Not Resuscitate Order Form for Florida

When considering the Florida Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form, it is essential to understand its purpose and how to use it effectively. Here are some key takeaways:

1. The DNR Order is a legal document that allows individuals to refuse resuscitation in the event of cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.
2. It is crucial for the DNR Order to be signed by both the patient and their physician to be valid.
3. Patients must be of sound mind and capable of making their own medical decisions when completing the form.
4. The DNR Order should be easily accessible, ideally kept in a visible location, such as on the refrigerator or with medical records.
5. Healthcare providers must honor the DNR Order, and it is important to communicate your wishes to family members and caregivers.
6. Review the DNR Order regularly, especially if there are changes in health status or personal wishes.
7. Individuals can revoke the DNR Order at any time, which can be done verbally or by destroying the document.

Understanding these points can help ensure that your wishes regarding resuscitation are respected and followed in a medical emergency.

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 medical emergency. This order is specifically intended for individuals who have a terminal condition or are in a persistent vegetative state. It ensures that medical personnel do not perform CPR or other life-saving measures if the individual’s heart stops or they stop breathing.

Who can request a Do Not Resuscitate Order in Florida?

In Florida, a DNRO can be requested by any adult who is capable of making their own medical decisions. This includes individuals who are diagnosed with a terminal illness or have a medical condition that leads to a poor prognosis. Additionally, a legal representative, such as a healthcare surrogate or a guardian, can request a DNRO on behalf of someone who is unable to make decisions for themselves.

How do I obtain a Do Not Resuscitate Order form?

The DNRO form can be obtained from several sources, including hospitals, healthcare providers, and the Florida Department of Health website. The form must be completed and signed by both the patient and their physician. It is important to ensure that the form is filled out correctly to avoid any confusion during a medical emergency.

What should I do with my completed Do Not Resuscitate Order?

Once the DNRO is completed and signed, it is crucial to keep the document in an easily accessible location. It is recommended to carry a copy with you at all times, especially when visiting healthcare facilities. Inform family members, friends, and caregivers about the order to ensure that your wishes are respected in case of an emergency.

When considering end-of-life care preferences, the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) form is an essential document. However, several other forms and documents can complement the DNRO to ensure that your wishes are respected. Below are some commonly used documents that work in conjunction with the DNRO.

• Advance Directive: This document outlines your healthcare preferences and can include instructions about medical treatment, organ donation, and end-of-life care. It allows you to express your wishes clearly and appoint a healthcare proxy to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
• Healthcare Proxy Designation: This form allows you to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated. This person, often referred to as your agent or surrogate, should be someone who understands your values and healthcare preferences.
• Living Will: A living will is a specific type of advance directive that details your wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where you are terminally ill or permanently unconscious. It provides guidance to healthcare providers and loved ones about the type of care you want or do not want.
• Durable Power of Attorney Form: For those seeking to manage their healthcare decisions, the important Durable Power of Attorney form options enable you to appoint an advocate for your medical choices when you are unable to express them.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): This is a medical order that specifies your treatment preferences in emergency situations. Unlike the DNRO, which focuses solely on resuscitation, a POLST form can address a wider range of medical interventions, making it a comprehensive tool for managing your healthcare wishes.

By utilizing these documents alongside the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order, you can create a comprehensive plan that reflects your healthcare preferences. This approach not only provides clarity for your loved ones but also ensures that your wishes are honored in critical situations.

When filling out the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) form, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure that your wishes are clearly communicated. Here are some dos and don'ts to consider:

• Do ensure that the form is completed in full to avoid any confusion.
• Do have the form signed by a licensed physician to validate it.
• Do keep copies of the completed form in easily accessible locations.
• Do discuss your decision with family members to ensure they understand your wishes.
• Do review the form periodically to confirm it still reflects your desires.

• Don't fill out the form under pressure or without fully understanding its implications.
• Don't make any alterations to the form after it has been signed by a physician.
• Don't assume that verbal instructions are sufficient; always use the official form.
• Don't forget to inform your healthcare providers about the existence of the DNRO.