40+ Free Printable Do Not Resuscitate Forms (All States) In Word

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a critical medical document that communicates a patient’s wish not to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if the heart stops or breathing ceases. DNR forms are commonly used in hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospice settings, and at home to ensure patient preferences are respected.

Because DNR requirements vary by state, using the correct format is essential. Free printable Do Not Resuscitate forms in Word provide an accessible, editable way to prepare state-appropriate documentation that aligns with medical and legal expectations.

This article presents 40+ free printable DNR forms, covering all U.S. states, available in Word format for easy customization and printing.

What Is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Form?

A DNR form is a physician-authorized medical order indicating that CPR should not be performed if a patient experiences cardiac or respiratory arrest.

A standard DNR form typically includes:

Patient identification information
DNR instruction (no CPR)
Physician or authorized provider signature
Date of authorization
Patient or legal representative acknowledgment
State-specific wording or symbols

DNR forms guide healthcare providers during emergencies.

Why Use Free Printable DNR Forms?

Using free printable DNR forms offers several important benefits.

Key advantages include:

State-appropriate structure
Clear communication of medical wishes
Editable format for accuracy
Easy printing and distribution
Improved compliance in emergencies

Templates help ensure preferences are documented clearly and promptly.

40+ Free Printable Do Not Resuscitate Forms (All States – Word)

Below is a curated collection of free DNR forms, organized to reflect common state requirements and care settings.

State-Specific DNR Forms (1–35)

Alabama DNR Form
Alaska DNR Form
Arizona DNR Form
Arkansas DNR Form
California DNR Form
Colorado DNR Form
Connecticut DNR Form
Delaware DNR Form
Florida DNR Form
Georgia DNR Form
Hawaii DNR Form
Idaho DNR Form
Illinois DNR Form
Indiana DNR Form
Iowa DNR Form
Kansas DNR Form
Kentucky DNR Form
Louisiana DNR Form
Maine DNR Form
Maryland DNR Form
Massachusetts DNR Form
Michigan DNR Form
Minnesota DNR Form
Mississippi DNR Form
Missouri DNR Form
Montana DNR Form
Nebraska DNR Form
Nevada DNR Form
New Hampshire DNR Form
New Jersey DNR Form
New Mexico DNR Form
New York DNR Form
North Carolina DNR Form
North Dakota DNR Form
Ohio DNR Form

General and Multi-State DNR Templates (36–40+)

Generic DNR Form (Reference Use)
Hospital DNR Order Template
Long-Term Care DNR Form
Hospice DNR Form
Emergency Medical Services DNR Template
Complete DNR Forms Pack (All States)

Why Use Word Format for DNR Forms?

Word is a preferred format for DNR documentation due to flexibility and accuracy.

Benefits of Word DNR templates include:

Easy editing of patient details
Clear formatting for signatures
Compatibility with printing and scanning
Ability to update forms as needed
Storage for medical records

Word templates support accurate, readable documentation.

Best Practices for Using DNR Forms

To ensure DNR forms are honored:

Use the correct state-specific form
Obtain required physician authorization
Keep copies accessible to caregivers
Inform family members and care teams
Review and update forms periodically

Preparation improves compliance during emergencies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing DNR forms, avoid:

Using the wrong state form
Missing required signatures
Leaving forms inaccessible
Assuming verbal wishes are sufficient
Failing to inform medical providers

Avoiding these mistakes ensures wishes are respected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are DNR forms legally binding?
Yes, when completed according to state law and signed by an authorized provider.

Can DNR forms be revoked?
Yes. Patients or legal representatives can revoke or update DNR orders at any time.

Do DNR forms apply outside hospitals?
Many states recognize DNR forms in homes, long-term care, and emergency settings.

Are these templates official state forms?
They are formatted to reflect state requirements and should be reviewed with healthcare providers before use.

Conclusion

Do Not Resuscitate forms play a vital role in honoring patient autonomy and guiding medical care during emergencies. The 40+ free printable DNR forms in this guide provide accessible, state-aware templates to document end-of-life preferences clearly and responsibly.

With templates available in Word format, individuals and caregivers can prepare accurate, readable DNR documentation—supporting informed decisions, legal compliance, and respectful care.