What is a DNR order and is it worth getting?

Ask the doctor who signs your POLST to write a note to go with the form, describing what’s crucial to you. This documentation of your goals is invaluable, Dr. Vergo said, especially in an unexpected medical emergency.

If you’re preparing for surgery, your doctors may want to suspend your DNR or part of your POLST while you’re in the operating room. This allows them to address issues that could cause your heart to stop — such as an allergic reaction to medications — but are easily reversible and unlikely to affect your quality of life. But whether to suspend, limit, or leave these orders in place is ultimately up to you.

Get your forms ready—and your family.

DNR and POLST often come into effect during emergencies when medical personnel may have difficulty seeing your forms. Attach a copy to your refrigerator where paramedics are trained to review them. You can also stick a sticker on your front door or window. DNR bracelets that have “do not resuscitate” or “POLST” printed on them mean you have a completed form. However, in some states, if you have the bracelet but not the form, emergency workers may ignore the directive.

“You need to be really comfortable talking about your wishes,” said Jennifer Pardini, a community educator at Legal Assistance for Seniors in Oakland, Calif. Don’t let caregiving decisions be a secret, especially from loved ones. Tell them where your forms are and, if possible, give them copies.

If you change doctors, go into the hospital or move into long-term care, take your forms. Even if your doctor has entered a DNR or POLST into your electronic medical record, the information isn’t always shared between doctors and facilities. Be prepared to talk to multiple providers multiple times, Ms. Pardini said. The more people who know your wishes, the less likely there will be a mix-up.

Your care decisions may change as your health status changes. If you decide to revoke or modify a DNR or POLST, talk to your doctor and family, destroy all copies of the ancient forms and, if possible, fill out recent ones. A DNR or POLST is meant to protect you, Dr. Vergo said: “They’re not designed to be some kind of handcuff.”