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An advance directive is a legal document completed by an individual who is capable of making their own decisions. These are preference-based documents that guide care and treatment in the future if the individual is not able to speak for themselves. In your advance directive, you can appoint a healthcare agent to speak for you and describe your treatment preferences. Advance directives are not recognized by emergency first responders.

A DNR/COLST order is a medical order created through a shared decision-making process between a clinician (MD, DO, APRN, PA) and a patient. These documents require informed consent, will guide the current treatment plan, and are legally recognized by all medical providers, including emergency first responders. Consent for a DNR/COLST can be provided by someone other than the patient if the patient lacks capacity.