What is a D.N.R?

One common misconception regarding a Do Not Resuscitate order is that you will not receive any medical care or treatment. Where, in reality, a DNR order only applies to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and does not prevent other forms of medical treatment or saving interventions. People with DNR orders still receive medical care, such as:

• Pain management 

• Antibiotics

• Routine Medications

• X-rays, MRIs, other Medical Imaging

• Other treatment therapies, if they are needed

A DNR is Not Hospice

Another misconception is that having a DNR order implies that the person is actively dying or has no hope for recovery. In reality, a DNR order can be chosen for various reasons, including the person’s preference to avoid certain invasive and potentially harmful interventions. People may confuse the choice of being placed with a DNR with being on hospice, which is where you wouldn’t receive any life saving measures, including CPR. The decision to have a DNR order should ideally be a collaborative one between the patient (or DPOA: durable power of attorney) and their healthcare team. It's essential for the patient and their families to understand the implications and discuss their goals of care with medical professionals before making such decisions.

“A durable power of attorney: DPOA for healthcare will name someone to make medical decisions for you if you aren't able to make those decisions for yourself. This person is known as the patient advocate.” -State of Michigan

Why to Have a DNR?

DNR decisions are highly individualized and depend on people’s  unique medical conditions, values, and preferences. What may be the right choice for one person may not be appropriate for another. As stated before, some people believe that a DNR order applies to any medical situation, regardless of the circumstances. In reality, DNR orders are typically meant for situations involving cardiac or respiratory arrest. They do not affect other aspects of medical care, such as;

• Treatment for chronic illnesses

• Surgeries

• Emergency interventions unrelated to CPR.

The decision to have a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order in place is a deeply personal and often complex one. While it's important to consider individual circumstances and values, there are some potential benefits to having a DNR order, which can help guide end-of-life care in line with a person’s preferences.

If I Have a DNR I Will Not Receive Good Medical Treatment

Another misconception is that healthcare providers will provide less care or abandon a patient with a DNR order. In ethical medical practice, healthcare professionals continue to provide appropriate and necessary care, including pain management and comfort measures, to people with DNR orders. Healthcare providers are dedicated to compassionate care. They won't provide less care or abandon a patient with a DNR order. Ethical medical practice means continuing to provide appropriate care, including pain management and comfort measures, to those with DNR orders.

DNR Importance!

It's crucial for patients, families, and healthcare professionals to have open and honest conversations about end-of-life care preferences, including the use of DNR orders, to ensure that medical decisions align with the patient's wishes and values. Additionally, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals and considering advanced care planning can help clarify any misconceptions and make informed decisions about DNR orders.

Benefits:

• Autonomy:

• A DNR order allows individuals to express their autonomy and make decisions about their medical care, particularly in situations involving cardiac or respiratory arrest.

•  It ensures that their wishes are respected even when they are unable to communicate them.

• Reduced Medical Costs

• Avoiding aggressive and costly resuscitation efforts in situations where they are unlikely to be successful can help reduce healthcare costs, which may be especially relevant for individuals who are nearing the end of life.

• Emotional and Psychological Benefits

• Knowing that one's end-of-life preferences are documented and respected can provide peace of mind to both the person and their families. It can reduce the emotional burden of making difficult decisions during a crisis

In the end, the decision to have a DNR order should be deeply considered, involving conversations with healthcare professionals and loved ones. It's a choice that reflects a person's values, beliefs, and individual medical circumstances. It's a reminder that even in these complex decisions, compassion and empathy are at the heart of medical care.

Remember that the decision to have a DNR order should be made after thoughtful consideration, consultation with healthcare professionals, and discussions with loved ones. It is a personal choice that should align with your values, beliefs, and medical circumstances.