Generally, if you unknowingly perform CPR on someone with a valid Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order, you are typically protected legally, especially under Good Samaritan laws.
Understanding DNRs and CPR
A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a legal document that states a person does not want CPR if their heart stops or if they stop breathing. It's a directive to healthcare professionals and emergency responders not to attempt resuscitation. It is crucial to understand that a DNR is a patient's right to choose the extent of their medical care.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency procedure that attempts to manually preserve intact brain function until further measures are taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in a person who is in cardiac arrest.
Legal Protections and Good Samaritan Laws
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Good Samaritan Laws: These laws are designed to protect individuals who provide emergency assistance to others in good faith. If you are unaware of a DNR order and administer CPR in an attempt to save a life, Good Samaritan laws generally offer legal protection. The key is acting in good faith and without malicious intent.
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Valid DNR Order Requirement: The DNR order must be valid and accessible to be legally binding. If the DNR is not readily available or if its validity is questionable, emergency responders may err on the side of providing life-saving measures like CPR.
Ethical Considerations
While legal protection is often in place, there are still ethical considerations:
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Respecting Patient Autonomy: The purpose of a DNR is to respect a patient's wishes regarding end-of-life care. Ideally, medical professionals should confirm the presence of a DNR before initiating CPR.
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Unintentional Violation: If CPR is initiated unknowingly, it's generally considered an unintentional violation of the DNR. The focus shifts to ensuring the patient's comfort and respecting their wishes as outlined in the DNR once it becomes known.
What to Do If You Find Someone in Cardiac Arrest
- Assess the Situation: Quickly check for responsiveness and breathing.
- Call for Help: If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, immediately call emergency services (911 in the US).
- If a DNR is Present: If a valid and readily available DNR is present, respect the order and do not initiate CPR.
- If No DNR is Present: If no DNR is present, begin CPR until emergency medical services arrive.
Summary
Unknowingly performing CPR on someone with a DNR usually carries legal protection under Good Samaritan laws, provided you acted in good faith. However, respecting patient autonomy and a valid DNR order is crucial in end-of-life care.
