if in doubt of code status should CPR be done ?

[NurseLoveJoy88]

A few weeks ago a resident was found unresponsive by the nurse, the nurse did not know the code status and didn't do cpr, it was later concluded that the resident was a full code.

This has brought up a lot of thought at work. Now clearly the nurse should of had someone check the chart and did not do so.

My question is: if I find a resident unresponsive and don't know the code status right away should I start cpr or should I wait until the code status is determined ? I was personally taught to do cpr when in doubt however the directer of the facility seems to think otherwise. Please clarify.

[scootertrash nurse]

start CPR (but code status is kinda an important thing to know dont ya think)

[NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN]

start CPR (but code status is kinda an important thing to know dont ya think)

I agree it is an important thing to know, which is why me and another coworker is working on a plan to make the code status more available other than having to rumble through a chart while in a panic.

I do admit, I don't know the code status of my 60 sum residents by memory, however I'm going to do everything in my power to make the code status more accessible. I.E. having a list in each wing, but ofcourse not in public view.

[Sharon M RN BSN, BSN, RN]

I got fired for starting CPR on a person who went unresponsive and had no heart rate and only occasional agonal breathing... because I did NOT leave the patient, go to the nurse's desk first, look in an enormous three-ring binder for a POLST form that is copied on white paper and blends in with all the other papers, and verify whether or not that patient wanted CPR or was a DNR. The facility that I worked for does NOT want you to initiate CPR UNTIL you have verified if they want it, since CPR on a DNR is considered battery. The facility also refuses to place identifiers, like a bracelet or a necklace, on the patients, will not put a code status on the census sheet, will not post it in the room, etc. Also, the facility will not inform new employees of its "hands-off till verified" policy.