Which statement about Do Not Resuscitate orders is true?

Which statement about Do Not Resuscitate orders is true?

• A. DNR indicates resuscitation should be attempted in all circumstances
• B. DNR orders are decided solely by the patient without discussion
• C. DNR orders apply to all other treatments as well
• D. DNR orders reflect a patient or surrogate discussion and consider medical futility

Answer: (D)

DNR decisions center on aligning CPR with the patient’s values and the realistic outcomes in their medical situation. The true statement is that DNR orders reflect a conversation with the patient or a surrogate and take into account medical futility. In practice, this means healthcare providers discuss the likely benefits and burdens of resuscitation, consider whether attempting CPR would meaningfully help given the patient’s condition and goals, and document a choice that respects that discussion. DNR does not imply withholding all care—other treatments and comfort measures can still be provided per the patient’s wishes. And decisions aren’t made in isolation or solely by the patient without discussion; clinicians, and when needed surrogates, contribute information and guidance to reach an informed choice. The other options fail because CPR is not required in all circumstances, decisions are not made without discussion, and DNR does not encompass all other treatments unless explicitly stated.

DNR decisions center on aligning CPR with the patient’s values and the realistic outcomes in their medical situation. The true statement is that DNR orders reflect a conversation with the patient or a surrogate and take into account medical futility. In practice, this means healthcare providers discuss the likely benefits and burdens of resuscitation, consider whether attempting CPR would meaningfully help given the patient’s condition and goals, and document a choice that respects that discussion. DNR does not imply withholding all care—other treatments and comfort measures can still be provided per the patient’s wishes. And decisions aren’t made in isolation or solely by the patient without discussion; clinicians, and when needed surrogates, contribute information and guidance to reach an informed choice. The other options fail because CPR is not required in all circumstances, decisions are not made without discussion, and DNR does not encompass all other treatments unless explicitly stated.