A standardized form for the Colorado CPR directive is provided in this booklet (click to view or download).

• A CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) directive allows you to refuse in advance any attempt to resuscitate you by chest compressions, medications, defibrillation (electric shock), or intubation (artificial breathing machine) if your heart or breathing malfunctions or stops.

• CPR directives are almost always used by people who are seriously or terminally ill or elderly. For them, the trauma involved in CPR is likely to do more harm than good, but emergency personnel are required to perform CPR unless a directive tells them not to.

• A CPR directive is not the same as a DNR order. A DNR order is a doctor’s order made for seriously ill patients in healthcare facilities, including nursing homes. The DNR does not require the patient’s consent, and it expires when the patient leaves the facility.

• The Colorado CPR directive must be signed by both the individual (or the individual’s MDPOA agent or “proxy”—see below) and his/her physician. Other CPR directive forms may not require a physician’s signature.

• A CPR directive form does NOT have to be “original” nor do the signatures have to be “original.” Photocopies, scans, and faxes are just as valid as the original.

• CPR directives must be immediately visible to emergency personnel. At home, the best locations are right by the front door, on the refrigerator, or by the bedside of a bed-bound individual.

• For more active folks with CPR directives, a special no-CPR bracelet or necklace can be obtained from Award and Sign Connection (visit their website or 303.799.8979) or MedicAlert Foundation (visit their website or 888.633.4298).