Question

A 68-year-old man with severe COPD and multiple comorbidities is admitted with pneumonia and becomes hypotensive despite treatment. The consultant, patient and family agree that CPR would not be in his best interests due to poor prognosis. Which is the most appropriate action regarding resuscitation decisions?

Accepted Answer

Complete a DNACPR form and clearly record the discussion and decision in the notes.

Answer

Do nothing; the shared understanding is sufficient and no documentation is needed.

Answer

Ask the family to sign a consent form refusing CPR on his behalf.

Answer

Apply a blanket DNACPR order to all patients on the ward with severe COPD.

Answer

Delay any decision about resuscitation until the next ward round.

Practice question