What a Prehospital Medical Care Directive Covers
This is Arizona's version of a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order for out-of-hospital emergencies. Paramedics or emergency responders who arrive at a cardiac or respiratory arrest scene normally start resuscitation right away.
A prehospital medical care directive tells them not to. This is one of the most significant medical steps a person can refuse in advance.
A person may execute a prehospital medical care directive that, in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, directs the withholding of cardiopulmonary resuscitation by emergency medical system personnel, hospital emergency department personnel and, as provided in subsection L of this section, direct care staff persons.
A.R.S. § 36-3251(A)The directive covers cardiac compression, intubation, advanced airway management, artificial ventilation, defibrillation, and emergency cardiac drugs. It does not cover comfort care measures like intravenous fluids, oxygen, or pain medication.
The Orange Paper Requirement
Arizona requires the directive to be printed on an orange background. This is not just a suggestion. The color serves a practical purpose.
It helps first responders identify the document in seconds, without reading through a stack of papers. You can also wear a bracelet on your wrist or ankle with "Do Not Resuscitate" on an orange background.
You must sign the directive, or your healthcare agent or guardian can sign if you cannot. A licensed healthcare provider who has explained the consequences must also sign. A witness must sign as well.
The document is valid under Arizona law until revoked or replaced. To be valid, you must sign it of sound mind and free from coercion.
Immunity and Good Faith Reliance
Emergency responders who try in good faith to identify a patient and rely on a genuine directive are protected from liability. If there is any doubt about the document or the medical situation, responders proceed with resuscitation.
The law prioritizes saving lives when the situation is unclear.