🥸intro to psychology review

key term - DNR (Do Not Resuscitate)

Definition

A DNR, or Do Not Resuscitate, order is a legal document that instructs healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other life-saving measures if a person's breathing or heartbeat stops. It is an important consideration in the context of end-of-life care and decisions surrounding death and dying.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. A DNR order is typically signed by a physician and the patient or their authorized representative, such as a family member or legal guardian.
  2. DNR orders are often part of a broader advance directive, which may also include instructions for other life-sustaining treatments like mechanical ventilation or feeding tubes.
  3. The decision to have a DNR order is a highly personal one and should be made in consultation with healthcare providers, family members, and, if possible, the patient themselves.
  4. In some cases, a DNR order may be overridden in emergency situations, such as when a patient is admitted to the hospital in an unconscious state.
  5. The availability and acceptance of DNR orders can vary by location, as they are governed by state and local laws and regulations.

Review Questions

  • Explain the purpose and significance of a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order in the context of end-of-life care.
    • A DNR order is a legal document that instructs healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other life-saving measures if a person's breathing or heartbeat stops. It is an important consideration in end-of-life care, as it allows individuals to make their preferences for medical treatment known and ensure that their wishes are respected, particularly when they may be unable to communicate those wishes themselves. The decision to have a DNR order is highly personal and should be made in consultation with healthcare providers, family members, and the patient themselves, if possible.
  • Describe the relationship between a DNR order and other advance directives, such as a living will or power of attorney for healthcare.
    • A DNR order is often part of a broader advance directive, which may also include instructions for other life-sustaining treatments like mechanical ventilation or feeding tubes. Advance directives, including living wills and powers of attorney for healthcare, allow individuals to specify their preferences for medical care in the event they become incapacitated or unable to make decisions for themselves. While a DNR order is a specific instruction not to perform CPR, it is typically considered within the context of these larger advance planning documents, which help ensure that an individual's end-of-life wishes are known and respected by their healthcare providers and loved ones.
  • Analyze the potential challenges or ethical considerations that may arise in the implementation of a DNR order, particularly in emergency situations or when the patient's wishes are unclear.
    • The implementation of a DNR order can sometimes present challenges or raise ethical considerations. In emergency situations, for example, a DNR order may be overridden if the patient's wishes are not clearly documented or if there is uncertainty about their current condition or preferences. Additionally, there may be instances where a patient's family members or healthcare providers disagree on the appropriate course of action, leading to conflicts or difficult decision-making. These situations highlight the importance of clear communication, advance care planning, and a thorough understanding of the legal and ethical frameworks surrounding DNR orders and end-of-life care. Healthcare providers, patients, and their loved ones must navigate these complex issues with sensitivity and respect for the patient's autonomy and well-being.

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