Choosing to create a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a deeply personal decision. Understanding the process in Colorado is crucial for ensuring your wishes are respected. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Colorado DNR forms, including how to obtain one, what it entails, and frequently asked questions.
What is a DNR Order in Colorado?
A DNR order, also known as a physician's order for life-sustaining treatment (POLST) in some states, is a legal document that instructs medical professionals not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops beating or you stop breathing. It's a crucial part of advance care planning, allowing you to maintain control over your end-of-life care. In Colorado, these orders are carefully managed to ensure your wishes are legally binding and understood by medical personnel.
How to Obtain a Colorado DNR Form?
Unlike some states, Colorado doesn't have a single, standardized DNR form readily available online for download and self-completion. The process necessitates a conversation with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider. They'll assess your health status, discuss your wishes, and help you complete the necessary paperwork. This ensures accuracy and avoids potential misunderstandings. The form itself is typically created and completed within the healthcare provider's office or system, making it a safer and more legally sound process.
What Information is Included on a Colorado DNR Form?
The specific content of a Colorado DNR form can vary slightly depending on the healthcare provider, but it will generally include the following:
- Your personal information: Name, date of birth, address.
- Your physician's information: Name, contact details, signature.
- Your specific instructions regarding CPR: Clear and unambiguous statement that CPR should not be administered.
- Other medical orders: This section may include instructions regarding other life-sustaining treatments, such as mechanical ventilation or feeding tubes. Your doctor will discuss these options with you and include them if appropriate to your situation and wishes.
- Date and signature: Both yours and your physician's signature are necessary to validate the document.
What Happens After Completing a DNR Form?
Once completed and signed by both you and your physician, the DNR form becomes a legal and binding document. You should ensure a copy is readily accessible to emergency responders and other healthcare providers who might need to refer to it. This can be achieved by keeping a copy in your wallet, with emergency contacts, and informing family members and close friends of its existence and location.
Can a DNR Order Be Revoked?
Yes, a DNR order can be revoked at any time. This typically requires a conversation with your doctor to formally amend or cancel the existing order. It's vital to discuss any changes in your preferences or health circumstances with your healthcare provider to ensure your wishes are accurately reflected in the legal documentation.
What if I Don't Have a DNR Order?
Without a DNR order, medical professionals are legally obligated to attempt CPR and other life-sustaining treatments if necessary. This means even if your family believes you wouldn't want these interventions, the medical team will be required to act accordingly unless explicit documentation prohibits such actions. This underscores the significance of completing a DNR order if you wish to avoid aggressive medical interventions at the end of your life.
What is the Difference Between a DNR and a Living Will?
While both are vital components of advance care planning, they address different aspects of end-of-life care:
- DNR (Do Not Resuscitate): Specifically addresses CPR and other immediate life-sustaining measures.
- Living Will (Advance Directive): Specifies your wishes regarding broader medical treatment, including life-sustaining treatment in situations other than immediate cardiac or respiratory arrest. A living will provides guidance on various medical treatments and interventions should you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions for yourself.
It's often advisable to have both a DNR order and a living will in place to fully articulate your end-of-life preferences.
How can I get more information about Colorado DNR forms?
It's always best to consult directly with your physician or a healthcare professional specializing in advance care planning for the most accurate, up-to-date, and personalized guidance on Colorado DNR forms. They can provide tailored advice and help you understand the nuances of the process, making sure your wishes are clearly documented.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
