New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

In New York State, which DNR instrument is accepted as valid by EMS personnel?

1. Verbal request from family

2. Written non-hospital DNR or MOLST form

3. Written healthcare proxy

4. Written living will

The correct answer is: Written non-hospital DNR or MOLST form

In New York State, the acceptance of a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) instrument by EMS personnel is governed by specific legal guidelines. The valid forms for DNR directives are designed to clearly document an individual's wishes regarding resuscitation and other life-sustaining treatments. The written non-hospital DNR form or MOLST (Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) is officially recognized and is specifically created for situations outside of hospital settings. It provides clear, legally binding instructions that EMS personnel are trained to recognize and follow. This form requires the signature of both a patient and a physician, ensuring that the patient's wishes have been evaluated by a medical professional, which adds to its validity and enforceability in emergency situations. In contrast, a verbal request from family members would lack the necessary legal documentation and could lead to confusion or misinterpretation of the patient's wishes. A written healthcare proxy primarily grants decision-making authority to another individual regarding medical care but does not specifically indicate DNR wishes. Similarly, a written living will outlines a person's preferences for medical treatment in general but may not have the specific authority or structure to inform EMS personnel of DNR preferences in an emergency context. This legal framework ensures that when a written non-hospital DNR