[Do-not-resuscitate orders--ethical and legal considerations].
The article is based on a structured literature review. Practicing DNR orders in Denmark has not yet been described and there are no national guidelines. Generally patients must give informed consent before do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders. Only 32% of competent patients are involved prior to the decision even though patients wish to talk about decisions regarding the end of life . In general doctors cannot predict patients' do-not-resuscitate preferences and doctors underestimate patients' self-estimated quality of life. Doctors rarely contact the Danish Living Will Registry. Patients with do-not-resuscitate orders may be subject to other therapeutic reductions. In conclusion, patient autonomy should also be respected in the case of do-not-resuscitate orders.
Ballin
Nicola Hvidt
NH
Hvidovre Hospital, Gastroenheden, Medicinsk Sektion. nicolaballin@hotmail.com
D016223:Advance Directives / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D003657:Decision Making / Q000941:ethics; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D016224:Living Wills / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D018447:Medical Futility / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D016743:Mental Competency / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011788:Quality of Life; D016414:Resuscitation Orders / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence