Living Wills & Do Not Resuscitate Orders

A living will is NOT the same thing as a Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR). A DNR is a request not to have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops or if you stop breathing.

In California, the “Emergency Medical Services Prehospital Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Form) is an official State document developed by the California EMS Authority and the California Medical Association which, when completed correctly, allows a patient with a life threatening illness or injury to forgo specific resuscitative measures that may keep them alive. Such resuscitative measures include: chest compressions (CPR), assisted ventilation (breathing), endotracheal intubation, defibrillation, and cardiotonic drugs (drugs which stimulate the heart). The form does not affect the provision of other emergency medical care, including treatment for pain, difficulty breathing, major bleeding, or other medical conditions.

You can download the California DNR form HERE. The form should only be executed with the advice of a physician and/or licensed attorney. The California EMS Authority honors the DNR according to specific Guidelines.