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If a patient is admitted to hospice but does not have a dnr and they are actively dying in front of you what do you do? I answered I'd call 911 and start CPR because by not signing a dnr patient is saying they want to be resuscitated. I was told that was wrong answer and we stay with the pt and make them comfortable until they die. I understand that's the meaning of hospice but what about our licenses? Doesn't not performing CPR on a patient without a dnr in place have legal reprocussions?
Nascar nurse, ASN, RN
2,218 Posts
And this his is the rule per CMS guidelines and the condition of participation to be a hospice company. No one loses their right to choose. In the perfect world, it is hospices responsibility to educate on the disease process/prognosis as well as the intent and ramifications of CPR. When the stars align, the pt and/or family gets it before it's too late.