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When is it time for a DNR?

Posted by sbcarcht @sbcarcht, Mar 18 2:38pm

I see discussions about implementing DNR orders, however, I’m most interested in learning about when and how to make the decision that a DNR is now appropriate.

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minnesota10 | @minnesota10 | Mar 20 11:53am

I did my first on when I in my 40 now 70+.
Talk to the person or persons you want to be the persons who will make the decisions for you.
Get a form from the clinic read it thoroughly before you start filling it out.
Just because someone is younger than you, they may not outlive you.
You will need to make decisions about end of life.
Do you want to be put on a vent?
Do you want many IV drugs to keep you alive longer?
You need to make a decision at what point do you ask the medical team or your representative to say done.
I stated on mine, if there is no hope for recovery keep me comfortable to the end.

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Doris Jeanne W. | @dorisjeanne | Mar 25 1:06pm
In reply to @celia16 "I’d consult with an attorney to confirm you have all the proper documents in place. In..." + (show)
@celia16

I’d consult with an attorney to confirm you have all the proper documents in place. In my state, an Advance Medical Directive sets out your wishes in case you are terminally ill…..such as if you want extraordinary measures like CPR or even artificial nutrition. A Healthcare Power of Attorney, is also good to appoint so they can assist in healthcare decisions when you can’t and ask for the DNR when you can’t. I’m not a medical expert, but I got my cousin’s (I was her appointed agent) DNR signed when she was diagnosed with a terminal illness (dementia) and entered into Memory Care. This was her instruction per her Advance Medical Directive, though by that point she didn’t understand what any of it meant. It’s important to get those documents done while you are healthy. Keeping in mind the reality of how different you could be if terminally ill. The DNR is actually an order a doctor signs to not resuscitate. It was kept on the wall near my cousin’s bed.

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I am 87 now, but saw a lawyer to have my wishes made legally. He set up my wishes for my home (I have two daughters), as well as my personal wishes, including DNR details as well as other medical care details. He gave me copies of everything for both daughters, my doctor, and the local hospital where I have been sent previously. Hopefully this takes care of any problems after my death. It was not free, but not too expensive.

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davej | @davej | Mar 31 8:19pm

Do it today because tomorrow maybe to late and will circumvent lots of problems

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Arlo | @equanimous | Apr 1 11:36am

The time to do it is now. Ask your health care provider. They can arrange for a social worker to help you execute it and a copy will be provided for you, your appointed health care agent and a copy will be placed into your medical record. Do not delay.

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