Remember, the primary criteria that must be met to have a do not resuscitate order is the patient has been diagnosed as having a terminal condition. However, legislation that allowed such flexibility in its implementation probably would never have become law due to concern regarding abuse or indiscriminate application. If a sudden illness results in the deterioration of an individual's health, whether old or young, a do not resuscitate order may then become appropriate depending upon the circumstances. Unfortunately, there does not exist, at this time, any way to determine in advance who will or will not recover from a serious illness. There is no single answer to this question.
Human behavior is complex and individuals react differently when faced with a crisis situation.
Some family members call for an ambulance because they want to be reassured that the patient is not in pain or uncomfortable. Others may be seeking assistance in dealing with the death of a family member or want the patient transported to the hospital so that the attending physician will be present. Some healthcare professionals in nursing homes and private residences mistakenly think they are obligated to call 911 to demonstrate that they were in no way negligent in caring for the patient. For additional information on or about Do Not Resuscitate Orders contact The Florida Bureau of Emergency Medical Services. The DNRO form must be copied on plain yellow paper.