DNR Question. x

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Nelka

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There is a man at work we care for and he could be getting a dnr. He doesn’t have the capacity for this so it will be between his family and the professionals.

If he gets it and it looks like he will what does that mean for me? He is in his 70’s and has cerebral palsy, he is very weak and we feed him now.

I think I understand that in this case maybe the church says it is okay but the catechism makes no sense for me.

Also, how do I just watch someone die without trying to help?
 
@pup7 knows about DNRs. I think they only come into play when someone’s heart stops and they need CPR. And yes, in that case, you would stand by and not do CPR on the person.
 
Nelka said:
If he gets it and it looks like he will what does that mean for me? He is in his 70’s and has cerebral palsy, he is very weak and we feed him now.
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I’m an RN. No offense meant - I just don’t know what level you practice at.

I am going to assume you are an aide or volunteer - please, please don’t be offended if I’m wrong.

Is he in a facility or are you in home health assistance of some sort?

If he is in home health care you call 911 if he stops breathing when you’re there with him and you tell the dispatcher your patient has an out of facility DNR.

If he is in a facility you don’t start CPR on him if he stops breathing or otherwise becomes unresponsive and you notify the team. Personally, when that has happened with me, I try to page or use a phone because I have this thing where I work very hard to ensure no one dies alone if I can help it.

Catholicly speaking (when it comes to the DNR itself), there’s nothing you can or should do. This is his legal decision, and you are required by law to honor it. I’m not being short or trying to sound gruff, so I do apologize because I’m sure it sounds that way.
 
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