New Jersey estate planning attorney Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/dnr-orders-explained/) of The Matus Law Group has published a comprehensive guide on the often misunderstood topic of Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders. This article aims to provide clarity to New Jersey residents on how DNR orders work, their role in healthcare planning, and why they are an essential part of any estate plan.
Christine Matus, a well-regarded New Jersey estate planning attorney, explains that DNR orders are legal documents that instruct medical personnel not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patient’s breathing or heartbeat stops. According to Matus, while many people have heard of DNR orders, they may not fully understand what they entail or how they fit into broader healthcare and estate planning discussions. "DNR orders are an important tool for individuals who wish to further ensure their medical wishes are honored, even in moments when they cannot speak for themselves," Matus explains.
As a New Jersey estate planning attorney, Christine Matus emphasizes that DNR orders are a critical consideration for those who are putting together their healthcare directives. Often, people assume that estate planning is solely about managing assets and finances, but Matus underscores that it also involves making informed choices about medical care in critical situations. In the article, Matus takes the time to break down what a DNR order is, how it differs from other advance directives, and why individuals may want to consider adding one to their estate planning documents.
In New Jersey, estate planning attorney Christine Matus notes that confusion surrounding DNR orders can sometimes cause individuals to put off making important decisions about their healthcare. Matus states, “It’s not uncommon for individuals and families to feel overwhelmed when considering end-of-life care options. However, having a DNR order in place can alleviate some of that burden, helping ensure that your medical preferences are respected and that your loved ones are not left making difficult decisions on your behalf.”
The article by Matus also highlights the critical distinctions between DNR orders and other healthcare documents such as living wills and durable powers of attorney for healthcare. While living wills cover a broader range of medical treatments and interventions, a DNR order is specifically focused on CPR and life-saving resuscitation measures. For those with specific wishes about whether they want CPR administered in an emergency, Matus advises that a DNR order is a precise and legally sound way to make those wishes clear.
Additionally, Christine Matus explains how DNR orders must be properly documented and discussed with medical professionals to be effective. Matus advises New Jersey residents that simply having a DNR order signed by a patient is not enough; the order must be known to healthcare providers and made accessible in medical records or at the patient’s residence. As Matus points out, “An estate plan is only effective when it is properly communicated and understood by all relevant parties.”
Furthermore, Matus explains the different types of DNR orders available in New Jersey, including hospital DNR orders and non-hospital DNR orders, which are sometimes referred to as out-of-hospital DNRs. While hospital DNR orders are typically used for patients admitted to medical facilities, non-hospital DNRs are designed for individuals who wish to make their wishes known while living at home or in a long-term care facility. The article also discusses how DNR orders can be revoked or modified if an individual's medical or personal circumstances change over time.
Christine Matus encourages families in New Jersey to take the time to discuss DNR orders and other healthcare decisions as part of their broader estate planning process. According to Matus, having these conversations early can prevent unnecessary stress and confusion during emergencies. "Talking about end-of-life care can be uncomfortable, but it is a conversation worth having," Matus asserts. "Having a plan in place, including a DNR order if appropriate, allows individuals to maintain control over their medical care and gives peace of mind to their loved ones."
For those seeking more information or looking to create an estate plan that includes healthcare directives such as a DNR order, Christine Matus recommends reaching out to a qualified estate planning attorney. Having legal guidance in crafting these important documents can help ensure that all paperwork is correctly executed and reflects the individual's wishes accurately.
About The Matus Law Group:
The Matus Law Group, based in New Jersey, is dedicated to providing legal services in estate planning, real estate law, and special needs planning. Led by estate planning attorney Christine Matus, the firm has served the community for over 20 years, focusing on helping families make sound decisions to protect their assets and further ensure their healthcare directives are respected.
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