Protect Your Medical Decisions with Confidence
Have you ever been asked by a doctor or hospital to sign a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order and felt uneasy? You're not alone.
At Morris Ratcliff Law, many of our estate planning clients share the same concern:
“I don't want to be pressured into giving up care before I'm ready.”
Here's the good news: You have options. You have rights. And you don't have to make these decisions under pressure.
What Is a DNR?
A Do Not Resuscitate order is a medical directive that tells healthcare providers not to perform CPR or other life-saving measures if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
In Oklahoma, a DNR:
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Is a medical order, not a legal document
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Must be signed by both you and your physician
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Can be revoked or changed at any time
It's a serious decision—and it shouldn't be rushed.
Should You Sign a DNR?
That depends entirely on your values, your health status, and your personal preferences. But here's what we tell our clients:
- Never sign a DNR under pressure or without understanding what it means.
- A DNR is not the same as a living will or advance directive.
- You don't need a DNR to make your wishes known—there are better tools for that.
What to Do Instead: Create an Advance Directive
An advance directive (also called a living will in Oklahoma) is a legal document that outlines:
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The kind of medical care you want if you can't speak for yourself
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Who can make decisions for you (your healthcare proxy or medical power of attorney)
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Your wishes about life support, feeding tubes, and resuscitation—on your terms
This gives you more flexibility, protection, and peace of mind than a standalone DNR.
Why This Matters
Without clear legal documents:
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Doctors may ask your family to make difficult decisions on the spot
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Loved ones may disagree or feel guilt
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You may receive treatment you never wanted—or be denied care you did
An estate plan with an advance directive keeps you in control of your care.
Your Rights Under Oklahoma Law
In Oklahoma:
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You are not required to sign a DNR
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You can revoke a DNR at any time verbally or in writing
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You have the legal right to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions for you
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Hospitals must honor your living will and medical power of attorney when properly executed
At Morris Ratcliff Law, we help you make sure those documents are clear, enforceable, and tailored to your beliefs.
How Morris Ratcliff Law Can Help
We take the time to:
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Explain the difference between DNRs, living wills, and healthcare proxies
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Help you document your wishes clearly—so you're never caught off guard
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Create a complete estate plan that covers medical and financial decisions
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Guide you through real-life scenarios so you feel confident in your choices
You Don't Have to Make These Decisions Alone
Planning ahead takes the pressure off your loved ones—and off you. Protect your family's future today!
