Should a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) be Included in Your Estate Planning Process?
When the subject of estate planning is raised, most people’s thoughts turn to wills that ensure assets are distributed to loved ones, friends and charities exactly as desired. Few people in Monroe La and elsewhere are aware of DNRs and their important role in the context of estate planning. Niswanger Law estate planning attorney is here to help you determine if you can benefit from a DNR and weave it into your estate planning process.
An Overview of DNRs
DNR is an acronym that stands for do not resuscitate. The DNR is a form you fill out and provide to your doctor for signature. The doctor and witnesses sign and date your DNR form to make it legally valid. The purpose of having a DNR on file with your doctor and also clearly visible on the outside of your refrigerator door is to guarantee those responsible for providing medical treatment are aware of your desire for specific medical treatment (or lack thereof).
The DNR details exactly what types of life-saving measures you desire to be applied and also those that you do not want applied when your life’s on the line. As an example, you can fill out your DNR to direct emergency first responders not to intubate you or perform CPR in an attempt to save your life. In short, your DNR is a document that details your nuanced personal preferences in terms of medical care intervention.
Even if you are a young adult, it is in your interest to have a DNR on file to ensure your wishes pertaining to health care are acknowledged and adhered to. Emergency first responders are trained to look for DNRs on refrigerators and also check patients for bracelets, necklaces or other signs that a DNR is on file. Even if you aren’t in your golden years, you should still consider creating a DNR as there is a chance you will end up hospitalized with coronavirus or involved in a serious auto accident that jeopardizes your life. Emergency responders and hospital staffers will respect your wishes for care as detailed in your DNR, ensuring you receive exactly the treatment you indicate is acceptable.
Your DNR is a Legal Document
There is a common misconception that DNRs are strictly medical forms. The truth is DNRs are medical forms on file with a patient’s treating physician yet they are also legal documents. Fill out your DNR as you see fit when you are of sound mind and this Advanced Directive will be available for reference in the event that medical intervention is necessary. The DNR is applicable in instances when you are incapacitated and cannot communicate your desires for potentially invasive medical procedures such as intubation.
Meet with Niswanger Law’s estate planning attorney in Monroe La to go over your DNR Advanced Directive details. This consultation provides you with all the information you need to fill out a fully customized DNR prior to the meeting with your physician. Once your DNR is on file, the ensuing peace of mind will be truly invaluable.
Schedule Your Consultation With Niswanger Law
Do not go one more day worrying about the fate of your hard-earned assets and how you will be treated in your final days. Even if you aren’t wealthy, you still need an estate plan including Advanced Directives including a DNR. Niswanger Law in Monroe, LA is here to help with your estate planning. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with our estate planning attorney. You can contact our Monroe, LA legal team by dialing 318.953.0071 or by completing our contact form.
