Question

A client in a long-term care facility has signed a form stating that he does not want to be resuscitated. He develops an upper respiratory infection that progresses to pneumonia. His health rapidly deteriorates, and he is no longer competent. The client’s family states that they want everything possible done for the client. What should happen in this case?

Answer 1

The client signed the DNR form before developing pneumonia and becoming incompetent. DNR Forms are signed in the presence of a legal adviser, doctor or witness, which means the patient was in complete mental health and stability when signing the form. The patient's wishes should be respected, the family is no longer responsible for this client after him becoming incompetent since he, on his own will decided he did not want to be resuscitated. He can however be treated for the pneumonia, and upper respiratory infection, if he does, fall into respiratory or cardiac arrest then there is nothing anyone can do, but since the patient did not sign a do not treat form, he can be cured, but not resuscitated should he need it.