Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Awareness Card – What You Need to Know

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Awareness Card is a simple but effective way to communicate personal medical wishes in an emergency. While this card is not a legally binding document, it provides an extra layer of clarity in situations where every second matters.

What Is a DNR

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a legal document that tells medical professionals not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a person’s heart stops or they stop breathing.

DNR orders are typically issued by a doctor and added to a patient’s medical records. They are often chosen by individuals with serious illnesses, those receiving palliative care, or those who have decided they do not want aggressive medical interventions at the end of life.

Without a DNR order, emergency responders are required to attempt resuscitation, even if it goes against a person’s wishes.

Why Carry a DNR Awareness Card

Even when a person has an official DNR order in place, emergency situations can make it difficult for paramedics and hospital staff to access that information immediately.

Carrying a DNR Awareness Card helps ensure that first responders are aware of your preference regarding resuscitation. While they may still be required to look for official documentation, this card can be an important first step in communicating your medical choices.

Important Note – This Awareness Card Is Not a DNR Order

A DNR Awareness Card is not a legally recognized DNR order. Medical professionals can only follow an official DNR order that is properly documented and signed by a physician.

However, this card can be useful in situations where time is limited. It can direct emergency responders to check for official DNR paperwork or consult with family members or medical staff.

Who Might Need a DNR Awareness Card

This card may be helpful for

• Individuals with serious medical conditions who have a DNR order in place
• People in palliative or hospice care
• Those who have made an informed decision to refuse resuscitation
• Individuals who want to provide quick reference information for emergency responders

Medical emergencies are stressful for everyone involved. In high-pressure situations, medical teams must act fast, often without access to a patient’s full medical history. A DNR Awareness Card can serve as a visual indicator of a person’s wishes, prompting medical staff to seek out official documentation.

While this card does not replace a legally binding DNR order, it can help reinforce a person’s medical preferences and assist in reducing confusion during emergencies.

Get Your DNR Awareness Card Today from The Card Project US

If you or a loved one has a DNR order in place, carrying this card can provide additional peace of mind. Order your DNR Awareness Card today and keep it with you at all times to ensure your choices are clear when it matters most.