What Does DNI Mean on a Health Care Directive?

DNI means do not intubate.

A health care directive is a legal document that defines the health care you want to receive or refuse when you're incapacitated. You may see medical acronyms such as DNI or DNR on a directive.

Identification

There are two types of health care directives: a living will and a durable power of attorney (DPOA) for health care. A living will contains specific information about life-saving measures you do or don't want. The information is clearly defined by state law, so health-care providers can accurately interpret your wishes. The person with your DPOA acts as your health-care agent.

Features

Within your living will, you may include instructions like "do not intubate" (DNI) or "do not resuscitate" (DNR). When you indicate DNI, the provider cannot insert a breathing tube into your airway to sustain life. DNR means he can't give you CPR.

Considerations

The person to whom you have given your DPOA for health care is responsible for understanding your wishes and ensuring providers follow your DNI or DNR.

Tips

Once you are no longer incapacitated, you're free to change your mind about DNI, DNR or any other aspect of a living will.

Warning

According to Caring Connections, emergency medical personnel are not allowed to abide by DNI directives. They're required to stabilize you and take you to an emergency facility.

References

• American Hospital Association: Put It in Writing
• Caring Connections: What are Advanced Directives
• Abbreviations: DNI

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Living Wills and Advance Directives for Medicare Decisions
• Medicine Net: Intubate