What is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order in Oklahoma?
A Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal document that allows a person to refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other life-saving measures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. In Oklahoma, this order must be signed by a physician and is intended to honor the wishes of individuals regarding their end-of-life care.
Who can request a DNR Order?
Any adult who is capable of making informed decisions regarding their medical care can request a DNR Order. Additionally, a legal representative or healthcare proxy can request a DNR on behalf of an individual who is unable to make such decisions.
How is a DNR Order created in Oklahoma?
To create a DNR Order in Oklahoma, a patient must discuss their wishes with their physician. The physician will then complete the DNR Order form, which must be signed by both the patient and the physician. The form should be kept in an accessible location to ensure that emergency personnel can easily find it.
Is a DNR Order valid in all healthcare settings?
Yes, a properly executed DNR Order is valid in all healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and in-home care situations. It is essential for individuals to communicate their wishes to their healthcare providers and ensure that the DNR Order is included in their medical records.
What happens if a DNR Order is not followed?
If a DNR Order is not followed, it can lead to unwanted resuscitation attempts, which may cause distress for the patient and their family. In such cases, legal action may be pursued against the healthcare providers involved, as they are obligated to respect the wishes outlined in the DNR Order.
Can a DNR Order be revoked?
Yes, a DNR Order can be revoked at any time by the individual who created it. This can be done verbally or in writing. It is important to inform healthcare providers of the revocation to ensure that the individual's current wishes are respected.
What should I do if I change my mind about my DNR Order?
If you change your mind about your DNR Order, you should communicate your decision to your physician and any healthcare providers involved in your care. You may also want to complete a new DNR Order form to reflect your updated wishes.
Are there any specific requirements for the DNR Order form in Oklahoma?
The DNR Order form in Oklahoma must include specific information such as the patient's name, date of birth, and the signatures of both the patient and the physician. It should also clearly state the patient's wishes regarding resuscitation. The form must be easily accessible to emergency medical personnel.
Will a DNR Order affect other medical treatments?
A DNR Order specifically addresses resuscitation efforts in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. It does not affect other medical treatments or interventions. Patients may still receive all other forms of medical care as needed, including pain management and comfort measures.
Can family members override a DNR Order?
Family members cannot override a valid DNR Order that has been properly executed by the patient and their physician. However, if the patient is unable to communicate and has not designated a healthcare proxy, family members may be consulted regarding treatment decisions. It is always best for individuals to discuss their wishes with family members to avoid confusion.