Understanding DNI in Healthcare Directives: Definition & Significance

A health care directive is a legal document that defines the health care you want to receive or refuse when you're incapacitated. You may see medical acronyms such as DNI or DNR on a directive.

Identification

• There are two types of health care directives: a living will and a durable power of attorney (DPOA) for health care. A living will contains specific information about life-saving measures you do or don't want. The information is clearly defined by state law, so health-care providers can accurately interpret your wishes. The person with your DPOA acts as your health-care agent.

Features

• Within your living will, you may include instructions like "do not intubate" (DNI) or "do not resuscitate" (DNR). When you indicate DNI, the provider cannot insert a breathing tube into your airway to sustain life. DNR means he can't give you CPR.

Considerations

• The person to whom you have given your DPOA for health care is responsible for understanding your wishes and ensuring providers follow your DNI or DNR.

Tips

• Once you are no longer incapacitated, you're free to change your mind about DNI, DNR or any other aspect of a living will.

Warning

• According to Caring Connections, emergency medical personnel are not allowed to abide by DNI directives. They're required to stabilize you and take you to an emergency facility.