Appropriate use of DNR orders: a practical approach.
Too often, physicians, patients, and families make end-of-life care decisions despite poor physician-patient communication and misunderstanding by the patient and family about the effectiveness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We describe an approach to resolving conflict and reaching consensus on end-of-life care. This approach supports physician judgment to withhold futile treatment within the constraints of law and patient autonomy.
Agich
G J
GJ
Department of Bioethics, Cleveland Clinic, USA. agichg@ccf.org
Arroliga
A C
AC
D003142:Communication; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D006801:Humans; D018447:Medical Futility; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D016414:Resuscitation Orders