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.
 forms for all U.S. states in Word. State-specific, editable, and designed for clear end-of-life care preferences.){kind=link}