In some states a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is only applicable and available when a person is a patient in a hospital (inpatient). Some states provide out-of-hospital DNRs for those persons who are not an inpatient at a hospital. It is important that any personnel or family that would be in a position to be contacted in an emergency be made aware of the DNR and that a copy is available. It does not hurt to have several copies made and given to the primary parties involved as emergency contacts.
As regulations for DNRs vary from state to state, you will need to seek legal counsel in your state, check with your state's Department of Health or Office of the Attorney General to determine what is available to you and applicable regulations. Also, talk to your health provider about initiating a DNR. He or she may be able to talk to you about your options and counsel you on your decisions.
You may also be interested in reading the eXtension information about advance directives.
