A do not resuscitate (DNR) order is a request not to have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops or if you stop breathing. Unless given other instructions, hospital staff will try to help all patients whose heart has stopped or who have stopped breathing. A DNR order is put in your medical chart by your doctor. DNR orders are accepted by doctors and hospitals in all states.
This form is a generic example that may be referred to when preparing such a form for your particular state. It is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Colorado Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) or Advance Directive is a legal document that allows individuals to make decisions about their medical treatment in the event that they are unable to communicate their wishes. This document ensures that healthcare providers are aware of the individual's desire to have or not have certain life-sustaining treatments. A Colorado DNR or Advance Directive can be customized to meet an individual's specific preferences and can be divided into different types: 1. Standard DNR Order: This type of DNR request involves a person's decision to decline cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in case of cardiac or respiratory arrest. CPR includes chest compressions, ventilation, and other life-saving procedures aimed at restarting the heart or restoring breathing. 2. Comfort Measures Only (CMO): The CMO DNR order focuses on providing comfort care instead of aggressive medical interventions. It outlines the individual's wish to receive medication for pain management, oxygen therapy, positioning, and other measures aimed at reducing discomfort and improving quality of life. 3. Non-Hospital DNR: This type of DNR order is specifically designed for individuals who usually receive medical care outside a hospital setting but still wish to have a DNR in place. It ensures that healthcare providers in these non-hospital settings, like nursing homes or home healthcare, are aware of the individual's preferences. 4. Medical Power of Attorney and Living Will: Colorado allows individuals to combine their DNR preferences with other advanced healthcare directives such as a Medical Power of Attorney or a Living Will. A Medical Power of Attorney designates a trusted person to make medical decisions on behalf of the individual when they cannot communicate, while a Living Will specifies the person's desires concerning life-sustaining treatments, including DNR preferences. It is crucial to note that a DNR or Advance Directive in Colorado must be signed and witnessed in compliance with the state's legal requirements. It is also recommended discussing these preferences with a healthcare provider and ensure that copies are readily available to family members and healthcare professionals involved in the individual's care. By opting for a Colorado DNR or Advance Directive, individuals gain peace of mind knowing that their medical treatment aligns with their personal wishes, even when they are unable to express them.
