A do not resuscitate (DNR) order is a request not to have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops or if you stop breathing. Unless given other instructions, hospital staff will try to help all patients whose heart has stopped or who have stopped breathing. A DNR order is put in your medical chart by your doctor. DNR orders are accepted by doctors and hospitals in all states.
This form is a generic example that may be referred to when preparing such a form for your particular state. It is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Iowa Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR) or Advance Directive is a legal document that allows an individual to make decisions regarding their medical treatment in the event they become incapacitated or unable to communicate their wishes. This document provides detailed instructions to healthcare professionals regarding the use of life-sustaining treatments, specifically cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). A DNR order is designed for individuals who do not wish to receive CPR in situations when their heart stops, or they stop breathing. It instructs medical providers not to perform CPR, chest compressions, defibrillation, intubation, or administer medications to restart the heart. However, it is essential to note that a DNR order does not restrict other medical treatments or pain relief measures. In addition to the standard DNR order, Iowa offers several types of Advance Directives that provide further instructions for medical care. The different types include: 1. Iowa Living Will: This document outlines an individual's preferences for medical treatments in various situations when they cannot communicate their wishes. It covers a wide range of scenarios, not solely focusing on DNR orders. 2. Medical Power of Attorney: Also known as a Healthcare Proxy or Healthcare Surrogate, this directive designates a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the individual when they are incapable of doing so. It can include specific instructions regarding DNR orders. 3. Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment (POST): This is a medical order signed by a healthcare professional and aligns with an individual's preferences for medical treatment. It is more comprehensive than a DNR order, covering additional treatments or interventions beyond CPR. 4. Iowa Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST): Similar to POST, MOST is a medical order completed in consultation with healthcare professionals. It encompasses a broader range of medical interventions and can include instructions regarding DNR orders. Individuals considering an Iowa Do Not Resuscitate Order or Advance Directive should consult with their healthcare provider, lawyer, or an organization specializing in end-of-life care to ensure their documents accurately reflect their preferences and comply with state regulations. It is vital to share copies of these directives with family members, healthcare providers, and emergency services to guarantee that the individual's wishes are known and respected in any healthcare setting.
