Valid Michigan Do Not Resuscitate Order Template

1. What is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order in Michigan?

   A Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that allows individuals to refuse certain medical treatments, specifically cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. In Michigan, this order must be completed and signed by a physician and the patient or their legal representative.

2. Who can request a DNR Order?

   Any adult who is capable of making their own medical decisions can request a DNR Order. If the individual is unable to make decisions, a legal representative, such as a family member or a designated power of attorney, can initiate the process.

3. What are the steps to obtain a DNR Order in Michigan?

   The process typically involves the following steps:

   • Consult with a physician about your wishes regarding resuscitation.
   • Complete the DNR Order form, which must be signed by the physician and the patient or their representative.
   • Ensure that copies of the signed order are provided to your healthcare providers and kept in a visible place.
4. Is a DNR Order valid outside of a hospital setting?

   Yes, a DNR Order is valid in both hospital and non-hospital settings, including at home or in long-term care facilities. However, it is important to ensure that emergency medical services (EMS) are aware of the order, as they will follow the instructions provided in the DNR form.

5. Can a DNR Order be revoked?

   Yes, a DNR Order can be revoked at any time. The individual or their legal representative can verbally communicate their wish to revoke the order, or they can complete a new DNR form that explicitly states their desire to cancel the previous order.

6. What happens if a DNR Order is not followed?

   If a DNR Order is not followed, it can lead to legal consequences for healthcare providers. However, it is crucial that the order is clearly communicated and accessible to all relevant parties to avoid any misunderstandings.

7. Are there any costs associated with obtaining a DNR Order?

   There are generally no direct costs associated with obtaining a DNR Order itself. However, there may be fees for medical consultations or assessments required to complete the form, depending on the healthcare provider.

8. How can I ensure my DNR Order is honored?

   To ensure that your DNR Order is honored, keep copies of the signed document in easily accessible locations, such as on your refrigerator or with your medical records. Inform your family members, caregivers, and healthcare providers about your DNR wishes to avoid confusion in an emergency situation.

Understanding the Michigan Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order form is crucial for patients and their families. Misconceptions can lead to confusion and potentially impact medical decisions. Here are five common misconceptions:

• A DNR order means no medical care will be provided. This is incorrect. A DNR order specifically instructs medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac arrest. Other medical treatments and interventions can still be administered.
• A DNR order is only for terminally ill patients. Many people believe that only those with terminal illnesses can have a DNR order. In reality, any patient can request a DNR order based on their personal wishes regarding resuscitation, regardless of their health status.
• A DNR order is permanent and cannot be changed. This misconception is misleading. A DNR order can be revoked or modified at any time by the patient or their legal representative. Clear communication with healthcare providers is essential for any changes.
• Having a DNR order means a patient will not receive pain relief. Some individuals think that a DNR order limits access to pain management or comfort care. This is false. Patients with a DNR order are still entitled to receive appropriate pain relief and palliative care.
• Only doctors can complete a DNR order. While healthcare professionals play a role in the process, patients or their authorized representatives can initiate a DNR order. It is important to have discussions with healthcare providers to ensure that the order reflects the patient's wishes.

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

1. Not consulting a healthcare professional: Many people fill out the form without discussing it with their doctor or healthcare provider. This can lead to misunderstandings about the implications of the order.

2. Incomplete information: Leaving out crucial details, such as the patient's full name or date of birth, can render the form invalid. Make sure all sections are filled out completely.

3. Using outdated forms: Some individuals may use old versions of the Do Not Resuscitate Order form. Always check to ensure you have the latest version to avoid complications.

4. Not signing the form: A signature is essential. Without it, the form may not be honored by medical personnel. Be sure to sign and date the document.

5. Failing to communicate the order: After completing the form, it’s vital to inform family members and caregivers. They need to know your wishes to respect them in an emergency.

6. Not keeping copies: People often forget to make copies of the signed form. Keep several copies in accessible places, like with your primary care physician or in your medical records.

7. Not reviewing the order regularly: Life circumstances change. Review your Do Not Resuscitate Order periodically to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

8. Ignoring state-specific requirements: Each state may have unique rules regarding DNR orders. Be sure to understand and follow Michigan's specific requirements to ensure the order is valid.

The Advance Directive is a crucial document that outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment if they become unable to communicate. Like the Michigan Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR), it allows individuals to express their preferences about end-of-life care. Both documents aim to ensure that medical professionals respect the patient's wishes, preventing unwanted interventions during critical moments.

A Living Will is another important document that serves a similar purpose. It details specific medical treatments a person does or does not want in case they are incapacitated. Like the DNR, a Living Will provides guidance to healthcare providers, ensuring that the patient’s choices are honored during serious medical situations.

The Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form is designed for patients with serious health conditions. This document translates a patient’s preferences into actionable medical orders. Similar to the DNR, POLST is recognized by emergency medical services, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are followed during emergencies.

The Medical Power of Attorney grants a designated person the authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of someone else. This document complements the DNR by allowing the appointed individual to advocate for the patient’s wishes, especially when it comes to resuscitation and other critical care decisions.

The Healthcare Proxy is closely related to the Medical Power of Attorney. It allows someone to make medical decisions for another person if they are unable to do so. Like the DNR, it ensures that the patient's preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments are respected by the healthcare team.

The Do Not Intubate (DNI) order is a specific directive that indicates a patient does not wish to be intubated if they cannot breathe on their own. This document works alongside the DNR to provide clear instructions about the level of medical intervention a patient desires, especially in critical respiratory situations.

The Comfort Care Order focuses on providing relief from pain and discomfort without aggressive medical interventions. Similar to the DNR, this order emphasizes quality of life over prolonging life, ensuring that the patient receives compassionate care during their final days.