I am reaching out to express a concern I have with the DNR form. I work in the Health Information Management office at our hospital, and we are regularly entering patient documents into their electronic medical record. I have noticed that the DNR form EMS-7105 which is currently in use, has only one patient identifier on it. The patients name is located clearly at the top of the document; however, without further information it is difficult to confirm which patient the document belongs to. A second identifier such as date of birth would assure the right patient receives the right care. 

In our facility, we've had incidences where patients with similar names are admitted at he same time. This concerns me that the wrong patient could receive the wrong care because two identifiers are not requested on the form. 

I appreciate that this regulation is being clarified.  I am concerned about the change of “licensed practitioner” to “physician” in the regulation to sign the DDNR form with the patient or their authorized representative.  I see that “physician” is defined as, "Physician" means a person licensed to practice medicine in the Commonwealth of Virginia or in the jurisdiction where the treatment is to be rendered or withheld.  I am concerned that this will lead to confusion about Nurse Practitioners or Physician Assistants signing these forms.  I think that leaving the licensed practitioner is clearer then changing to physician. 

This is the area of concern:  Durable DNR orders Order Forms, including POST or POLST forms, shall be completed filled out and signed by a licensed practitioner physician and signed by the patient or patient's authorized representative.

I appreciate your consideration.