Dnr Ethical Dilemmas

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Identify the Ethical Dilemma Ethical considerations are impacted by many factors, such as culture, religion, up bringing, individual values and beliefs. These factors influence our ethical views and impact ethical decisions. The topic I chose as my ethical dilemma is The Ethical Position Against a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order. A DNR allows a patient with a life threatening illness or injury to choose whether or not they want cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) in the event that their heart stops working or they stop breathing. Many patients choose to have their DNR wishes officially known because they do not want to be placed on life-assisting equipment such as mechanical ventilators. As a healthcare…show more content…
It is much more complex than that. DNRs are not forms that patients sign saying they simply do not want to receive CPR. There are two different types of CPR. Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). BLS consists of chest compressions and getting air into the lungs either through mouth-to-mouth or via a bag valve mask. ACLS consist of using medications to restart the heart and artificial ventilation. Upon admission patients are asked about advanced directives including DNR and what their wishes are if a life-threatening event were to occur. Often DNR orders can be overlooked because they are misplaced or not in the patients file for some reason. It is very important upon admission that the patients directives are discussed and managed so that if the time comes healthcare workers know how to proceed and comply with patients…show more content…
Misinterpretation may stem from lack of knowledge on hospital policy or many other factors. To minimize misinterpretation DNR orders could be replaced with or additional clearly defined plan created by the patient, family, and multidisciplinary team. However, no plan is flawless and problems can arise between the patient, family, and multidisciplinary team on what should be included in the plan. While the healthcare provider cannot tell the family or patient what to do they can provide information and education so that an educated decision can be made. “Nurses have been found to report more stress in relation to DNR decisions than physicians do”(Pettersson, Hedstrom, & Hoglund, 2014). It can be emotional for both nurses and family members to give up on curative care especially when it goes against personal beliefs. No system is without flaws but working together for the same goal can make things work smoother and the patient happier and more comfortable during such a difficult

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