Question regarding "full code" status

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I work in LTC facility. Our DON recently instructed us: If we walk into a room and find a 'Full Code' resident unresponsive with no vital signs, we only attempt resuscitation if we witnessed the resident take their last breath.

"Full Code" means you do everything possible to resuscitate the person, right? I'm unaware of any changes.

If anyone has any references regarding any change, please provide. Thank you.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

I'm not in LTC, but my understanding of "full code" is that you do everything possible to resuscitate the patient. That's what we do in our facility unless a DNR order or advanced directive turns up instructing us to do otherwise.

Perhaps your facility has a different definition of what "full code" entails. I'd ask for clarification.

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Sounds like a poorly thought out policy. If someone is full code typically the policy is to attempt CPR until an ambulance arrives. Sounds like the facility is leaving itself open to lawsuit. Sometimes a "slow code" is done, but if I was the nurse and my patient was a full code I would do CPR.

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I would do what is required of you by the law, not the DON. Here is TX that policy is illegal.

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I work in LTC facility. Our DON recently instructed us: If we walk into a room and find a 'Full Code' resident unresponsive with no vital signs, we only attempt resuscitation if we witnessed the resident take their last breath.

"Full Code" means you do everything possible to resuscitate the person, right? I'm unaware of any changes.

If anyone has any references regarding any change, please provide. Thank you.

If you follow this policy, and don't resuscitate someone who you did not see take their last breath, chances are you will be sued.

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Please name this facility so I can be sure not to ever put my loved one there!

Yikes.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Home Health.

When I was in LTC, every resident was assumed to be a full code unless you saw a DNR posted on the back of their door. If a resident was found down elsewhere, you performed CPR until EMS arrived or someone showed you the resident's DNR sheet.

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I would probably attempt resuscitation. Only problem is on NOC shift theoretically I could leave a persons room, they could die then and then when we come back from rounds they could already have been dead for two hours. I would hate to do CPR on a body that's been dead for two hours.

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.
I work in LTC facility. Our DON recently instructed us: If we walk into a room and find a 'Full Code' resident unresponsive with no vital signs, we only attempt resuscitation if we witnessed the resident take their last breath.

"Full Code" means you do everything possible to resuscitate the person, right? I'm unaware of any changes.

If anyone has any references regarding any change, please provide. Thank you.

Has your DON notified the families of this decision?

I wouldn't think this is ok....I would check with the state for regulations on this.

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