Do verbal instructions from friends or family members constitute a valid DNR/POLST?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only with physician signature
• D. Only if documented in patient chart

Answer: (B)

Verbal instructions from friends or family do not count as a valid DNR or POLST. These orders are medical directives that must be created and signed by a clinician and documented in the patient’s chart or on an official form. They require clear patient identification, dating, and usually an expiration or review date, making them binding medical orders. Verbal statements are easy to misinterpret, may be outdated, and lack proper authentication, so they cannot be relied upon in the field. In practice, look for a physician-signed DNR, a POLST form, or an accessible advance directive in the chart or carried by the patient (wallet card, bracelet). If none is verified as current and valid, you should initiate resuscitation and follow protocol. If a valid order is present, follow it.