Living Wills in Colorado Springs: DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) vs. Living Will

Life can be unpredictable, and preparing for unexpected medical situations is an important step in ensuring your wishes are respected. At The Law Office of Kevin R. Hancock, we guide individuals in Colorado Springs through the process of creating living wills (also known as advance medical directives) legal documents that clarify your preferences regarding end-of-life medical care when you are unable to make decisions for yourself.  Many people have strong opinions about the kind of treatment they would want in such scenarios, and advance directives provide the legal means to communicate those preferences clearly.

There are generally two types of end-of-life medical directives – (1) he Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order and (2) the Living Will/Advance Medical Directive. We are going to explore and explain both.

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)

A DNR is a directive stating that if you do not want doctors, medical professionals or emergency responders to resuscitate you under any circumstances.  Thus, if your heart stops or you stop breathing, medical staff will not attempt resuscitation. This directive is typically used when someone is hospitalized with a terminal illness or is in hospice care, but a lot of elderly people have DNRs because they do not want “heroic measures” taken if they were to suffer a heart attack.  In situations without a DNR, medical staff are legally obligated to attempt resuscitation using methods like defibrillation, chest compressions, intubation, and artificial ventilation. However, with a DNR in place, you can ensure that these measures are not taken if that aligns with your wishes.

It’s important to note that for a DNR to be effective, it must be documented in writing on an approved form. 

Living Will/Advance Directive

A Living Will, also referred to as an Advance Directive or End of Life Directive, is a more comprehensive document outlining your preferences for medical care if you are determined to be in a “Persistent Vegetative State” or a “Terminal Condition.”

• Persistent Vegetative State – means you have no measurable brain activity beyond basic brain stem function, such as involuntary breathing and involuntary heartbeat.
• Terminal Condition – means an incurable or irreversible condition for which life sustaining procedures serve only to postpone the moment of death.

A Living Will allows you to specify a timeframe for maintaining life sustaining procedures —whether you want it removed immediately, after a certain period, or kept on indefinitely.  Additionally, Living Wills can include instructions regarding organ and tissue donation.

Why Advance Directives Matter

The primary purpose of a DNR or a Living Will is to provide clear, legally binding instructions on your medical preferences. While younger, healthier individuals may not require a DNR, we recommend that anyone over the age of 18 have a Living Will in place. This document helps remove potential conflict or confusion among loved ones should you become incapacitated.

Next Steps for Colorado Springs Residents

For those in Colorado Springs, it’s essential to consult with a trusted attorney, your family and your healthcare providers when creating advance directives. At The Law Office of Kevin R. Hancock, we provide the expertise you need to craft these documents effectively. 

For assistance with your Living Will or DNR, contact The Law Office of Kevin R. Hancock in Colorado Springs today. We’re here to help you make informed decisions and ensure your preferences are respected.