A Do Not Resuscitate order is one of the most confusing and misunderstood parts of end of life care.  What do you need to know about DNR orders if you’re a hospice patient, or a family member who makes decisions for a loved one?

Jerry and Helen do some “myth busting” about what CPR is really like, and how successful it is likely to be when used on a terminally ill patient.  What we see on TV and movies doesn’t accurately depict what resuscitative procedures look like. The best practice is to talk about DNR decisions with your physician or your hospice team. Remember that it’s not a one and done conversation - you need time to think it over and get answers to your questions.  Patients and their families have rights, and their decisions should be respected. Give a DNR decision the consideration it deserves.

You can find out how to make a discussion of DNR orders part of your advance care planning conversations on theheartofhospice.com.  Take advantage of the multiple resources offered on the Learn page.  Your decisions matter - you are The Heart of Hospice!