If you do not wish to be resuscitated after grappling with a medical issue, you want to document this with a DNR. There are unique considerations that go into creating a DNR, and you should always consult with an estate planning lawyer to ensure you understand how to document and common pitfalls to avoid.Â
As part of your estate planning, you may need to think about ethical issues around when you do or don’t want to be resuscitated. There are specific legal concerns related to do not resuscitate orders and advanced directives in California, too.
Patients in California have the legal right to refuse medical treatments such as life-saving measures. This right is strongly protected, but it is upon you to document this as part of your estate. California recognizes the impact of advanced directives such as living wills and a durable power of attorney in determining that individuals should be able to make healthcare decisions when they are unable to do so for themselves. This means thinking in advance about specific wishes you have regarding your health care and actions that other people can or cannot take on your behalf.
In order for a DNR to remain active in California, it must include the date of the order and the patient’s name, and it needs to be signed by that individual’s physician as well as the patient or their health care agent. This order then becomes entered into the medical records for the patient, but a person can revoke this at any time in writing or verbally, even in an emergency situation. A DNR is usually executed when a person has a terminal illness or a history of chronic disease that has in the past or may in the future require CPR. If the patient wishes to no longer be revived, they would document this in their do not resuscitate order.
Speak with our Pasadena estate planning lawyers to learn more about your options.
Â
