What You Need to Know About Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Hospice Care

Over three-quarters of people receiving end-of-life care do not like the use of extreme lifesaving measures. Such things can end up reducing a patient’s quality of life if they survive, and so many people choose to seek out “Do not resuscitate” orders. However, there are many that are unsure what this means and how it works in hospice care.To help you understand, we have laid out some of the main facts below. As you read through, think of any other questions you might have, and you can ask them of your hospice care provider when you next talk to them.

What Are Do Not Resuscitate Orders?

These orders constitute a legal document that informs healthcare providers that they should not perform CPR on a patient. Patients often ask for these when they have a terminal illness but do not want to undergo any medical intervention.A doctor might suggest a DNR when they want a patient to retain their quality of life all the way to the end. This is to help the patient’s life end with as little pain or discomfort as possible.“Do not resuscitate” guidelines state that it only applies to CPR, it is voluntary, and that the patient may revoke them at any time. Healthcare providers work hard to respect the patient’s wishes related to these facts.In short, DNRs can help a person keep their dignity when they know the end of their life will soon come.

Who Can Make DNR Decisions?

This is a very personal choice a patient makes when consulting a healthcare provider. They must still be competent and able to make such decisions, as they must understand the full implications of a DNR.Sometimes, a facility might ask a legal guardian or family member to choose if a person should have a DNR order. However, a healthcare provider will always defer to the patient’s decision when last competent when possible.

How Are These Orders Implemented?

In-home hospice care should always run through a set of steps when putting a DNR in place.If a patient has a DNR, it should be obvious on any documentation, and the facility must tell those who might perform CPR, such as emergency responders. Also, the hospice staff needs to ensure the patient is fully aware of what this order means and how it might affect them.When a patient then undergoes cardiac or respiratory arrest, the staff will act. Instead of performing CPR, they will do everything they can to make the patient comfortable. This might include pain medication or making them physically comfortable.

Finding the Right Hospice Care

With the knowledge of what Do Not Resuscitate orders are, you should have a better idea of one of the most serious aspects of hospice care. You can also have the assurance that we treat such things with the utmost respect.If you want to know more about our policies when it comes to these guidelines, or want to ask any more questions, you can always talk to us. We are willing to discuss with you any aspects related to staying in our facilities. So, pick up the phone and give us a call to get the assurances you need today.