Valid Do Not Resuscitate Order Template for the State of Florida

What is a Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO)?

A Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that informs medical personnel that a person does not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other lifesaving measures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. It serves to honor the patient's wishes regarding end-of-life care.

Who can create a DNRO in Florida?

Any adult or legally authorized representative can create a DNRO in Florida. This includes individuals with a clear understanding of their medical condition and the implications of the order. Guardians and health care proxies can also make the decision on behalf of a patient.

How is a DNRO executed?

To execute a DNRO, the individual must complete the official Florida DNRO form. The form must be signed by the patient or their representative and a physician. The physician's signature indicates that the patient has made an informed decision about their end-of-life care.

Where should the DNRO be kept?

It is essential to keep the DNRO in a location that is easily accessible, such as on the refrigerator or in a medical file. Additionally, individuals should carry a copy in their wallet or purse. Medical personnel must be able to see this document quickly in emergency situations.

Does a DNRO apply in all medical situations?

No, a DNRO specifically applies to situations where a patient is in cardiac or respiratory arrest. It does not prevent other forms of medical treatment or intervention that may be necessary for the patient’s health or comfort.

Can a DNRO be revoked?

Yes, a DNRO can be revoked at any time by the patient or their representative. To revoke a DNRO, simply destroy the document and communicate the change to appropriate medical personnel. A new DNRO can also be completed if the patient's wishes change.

Is a DNRO the same as a living will?

No, a DNRO is not the same as a living will. While a living will provides guidance on a person's preferences for medical treatment and end-of-life care, a DNRO specifically addresses wishes related to resuscitation efforts in emergency situations.

Are there any specific requirements for the physician's signature on the DNRO?

Yes, the physician must be licensed to practice medicine in Florida. The physician's signature confirms that they have discussed the DNRO with the patient and that the patient understands the implications of such an order.

Will my DNRO be recognized in other states?

Florida's DNRO may not be automatically recognized in other states. It's advisable to check the local laws and regulations in the state where the person plans to travel or live. Some states have their own forms that may be necessary to ensure compliance.

What should I do if emergency personnel arrive and my DNRO is not visible?

If emergency personnel arrive and cannot see the DNRO, they will be legally obligated to provide lifesaving treatment, including CPR. It’s important to inform family members and caregivers about the DNRO so that they can present it in an emergency.

1. Not including the patient's information: One common mistake is failing to provide complete and accurate information about the patient, such as their full name, date of birth, and other identifying details. Ensuring this information is correct is crucial for the form to be valid.

2. Not having a physician's signature: The Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order form requires a physician's signature. Some individuals overlook this step, thinking verbal agreements suffice. Without the doctor's signature, the document will not be recognized.

3. Choosing the wrong witnesses: The form needs witnesses, and those witnesses must meet specific criteria. People often choose family members or close friends when they shouldn't. This can invalidate the document, leaving the patient's wishes unprotected.

4. Filling out the form under duress: Sometimes, people fill out the form when they are stressed or under pressure. It’s essential that individuals understand what they are signing and are doing so voluntarily, as this ensures the authenticity of their wishes.

A Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) form is an important document for individuals who wish to express their desire not to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of a medical emergency. However, several other documents can complement the DNRO to ensure that an individual's healthcare preferences are respected. Below are additional documents often used alongside a DNRO.

• Advance Directive: This document outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment if they are unable to communicate. It may include preferences for life-sustaining treatments and other healthcare decisions.
• Healthcare Surrogate Designation: A legal document that appoints someone to make healthcare decisions on behalf of an individual if they are unable to do so. This person can speak on behalf of the patient when critical decisions must be made.
• Living Will: A type of advance directive that specifically details a person's preferences for end-of-life care, including the use of artificial life support and other life-sustaining measures.
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST): A medical order that goes beyond an advance directive. It is a signed document that translates a person's healthcare preferences into actionable medical orders for emergency situations.
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This legal document grants authority to a designated person to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the individual, ensuring their wishes are honored even when they cannot express them.
• Patient Advocate Designation: Similar to a healthcare surrogate designation, this document appoints someone to advocate for the patient's health and treatment choices while ensuring their values and preferences are taken into account.
• Do Not Hospitalize Order: This document instructs healthcare providers not to admit a patient to a hospital or limit the type of medical interventions provided in an emergency to align with the patient’s wishes for care.

Collectively, these documents serve to create a comprehensive plan that guides healthcare providers in respecting an individual's medical preferences. Proper organization and communication of these desires can provide peace of mind for patients and their families.

The Advance Directive is a crucial document that allows individuals to outline their healthcare preferences in advance. This document typically includes instructions regarding medical treatment in situations where the person may no longer be able to communicate their wishes. Similar to the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order, an Advance Directive empowers patients to maintain control over their medical care, even when they might be incapacitated. This document can encompass wishes related to life-sustaining treatments, much like the DNR's focus on resuscitation efforts specifically.

When completing the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order form, it’s important to follow certain guidelines. Here are four key things to do and to avoid:

• Do: Ensure you understand the implications of a Do Not Resuscitate Order.
• Do: Include the required information, such as your name and the date.
• Do: Sign the form in the presence of a witness.
• Do: Keep a copy in a place easily accessible to medical personnel.

• Don't: Leave any sections of the form incomplete.
• Don't: Use the form if you are feeling pressured or uncertain.
• Don't: Forget to update the form if your preferences or situation changes.
• Don't: Assume that verbal instructions will be sufficient; always use the official form.

Understanding the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) form can be crucial for individuals and their families when it comes to end-of-life care. There are several misconceptions surrounding this important document. Here’s a breakdown of those misunderstandings.

• Misconception #1: A DNRO is the same as a living will.

A DNRO specifically addresses the issue of resuscitation efforts in case of cardiac arrest. A living will, on the other hand, outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in general when they are unable to express them. They serve different purposes.

• Misconception #2: The DNRO must be signed by a doctor.

While it's true that a health care provider must issue a DNRO, the individual can also print the form and complete it without a doctor's signature initially. It is often filled out as part of a discussion with a healthcare provider, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be started by the individual.

• Misconception #3: A DNRO applies in all situations.

This is not the case. A DNRO is specifically for situations involving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It does not affect other types of medical treatment or intervention, and does not prevent someone from receiving necessary medical care.

• Misconception #4: Once you complete a DNRO, it can’t be changed.

In fact, individuals can update or revoke their DNRO at any time. Life circumstances change, and so might someone’s perspective on their end-of-life care. It's important that the document reflects current wishes.

• Misconception #5: Only elderly people need a DNRO.

This belief is misleading. Anyone with a serious medical condition or who is facing major surgery might want to consider completing a DNRO. Understanding one’s own healthcare decisions can be beneficial at any age.

Filling out the Florida Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) form is an important step in ensuring that an individual's healthcare preferences are respected in emergency situations. Here are key takeaways to consider:

• The DNRO form must be signed by a physician, and it should reflect the individual's wishes regarding resuscitation in case of a cardiac or respiratory arrest.
• Individuals must be at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor to fill out the form. Legal guardians can sign on behalf of minors.
• A copy of the completed DNRO form should be kept with the individual at all times, easily accessible for emergency medical personnel.
• Healthcare providers are required to honor the DNRO if it is valid and properly filled out.
• It is important to review and update the form as needed, especially if there are any changes in medical condition or personal preferences.
• Potential changes in laws or regulations may affect the DNRO process. Staying informed is crucial for ensuring the form remains valid.
• Patients and families are encouraged to discuss their decisions about resuscitation with healthcare providers, as clear communication can help prevent misunderstandings.