Do Not Resuscitate Order Form for Washington State

There are several misconceptions surrounding the Washington Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form. Understanding these can help clarify its purpose and implications.

• A DNR means I will not receive any medical treatment. This is not true. A DNR specifically addresses resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac arrest. Other medical treatments can still be provided.
• Only terminally ill patients need a DNR. This is a common misconception. Anyone can request a DNR, regardless of their health status, if they wish to avoid resuscitation.
• A DNR is the same as a living will. While both documents express healthcare preferences, a DNR specifically focuses on resuscitation, whereas a living will covers broader healthcare decisions.
• I can’t change my mind once I have a DNR. This is false. A DNR can be revoked or modified at any time, as long as the patient is capable of making that decision.
• Healthcare providers will ignore my wishes if I have a DNR. On the contrary, healthcare providers are legally obligated to honor a valid DNR order, provided it is properly completed and signed.
• A DNR is only for use in hospitals. This is misleading. A DNR can be effective in various settings, including at home or in long-term care facilities, as long as it is properly documented.

Understanding these misconceptions can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare preferences.

In addition to the Washington Do Not Resuscitate Order form, there are several other important documents that may be used to ensure that an individual's healthcare preferences are respected. These documents provide clarity regarding medical treatment and end-of-life decisions. Below are four commonly used forms that complement the DNR order.

• Advance Directive: This document outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they may not be able to communicate their preferences. It can include specific instructions about life-sustaining treatments and designate a healthcare proxy to make decisions on their behalf.
• Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: This form is essential for documenting the transfer of vehicle ownership in California. To obtain this crucial document, you can download the pdf here.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney: This legal document allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to make healthcare decisions for them if they become incapacitated. The appointed person, known as an agent, is responsible for ensuring that the individual's medical preferences are followed.
• Living Will: A living will is a type of advance directive that specifically addresses end-of-life care. It details the medical treatments an individual wishes to receive or avoid, such as mechanical ventilation or feeding tubes, in the event they are terminally ill or permanently unconscious.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): This form translates a patient's treatment preferences into actionable medical orders. It is designed for individuals with serious illnesses or those nearing the end of life, ensuring that their wishes are honored across different healthcare settings.

Understanding these documents is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare preferences. Each form serves a specific purpose and helps facilitate communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers. By preparing these documents, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected, providing peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones.

When filling out the Washington Do Not Resuscitate Order form, individuals often make several common mistakes. These errors can lead to confusion or misinterpretation of the person's wishes regarding medical care. Understanding these mistakes can help ensure that the form accurately reflects the individual's intentions.

One frequent mistake is failing to provide all required personal information. The form requires specific details such as the patient's name, date of birth, and other identifying information. Omitting any of this information can render the form invalid.

Another common error is not signing the form. A signature is necessary to validate the document. Without it, healthcare providers may not recognize the order, which defeats its purpose.

People sometimes forget to date the form. A date is crucial because it indicates when the wishes were documented. If the form lacks a date, it may create uncertainty about the validity of the order.

In some cases, individuals do not discuss their wishes with family members or healthcare providers before completing the form. This lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings and conflict during critical moments.

Some individuals may incorrectly assume that a verbal statement is sufficient. A written order is necessary for healthcare professionals to follow the patient's wishes. Relying solely on a conversation can lead to complications.

Another mistake is using outdated forms. The Washington Do Not Resuscitate Order form may change over time. Using an old version can cause issues, as healthcare providers may not accept it.

People may also fail to review the form after completing it. Changes in health status or personal preferences may occur. Regularly reviewing the document ensures that it remains current and accurate.

Finally, individuals sometimes overlook the need for copies. It is essential to provide copies of the completed form to healthcare providers, family members, and anyone involved in the patient's care. Without these copies, the order may not be honored.