DNR's - Do Not Resuscitate

A mesothelioma patient has a lot of decisions to make. It can be very overwhelming. A patient has to choose a physician, treatment plan, therapy, pain management and more. Included in these decisions is whether or not a patient should consider DNR’s (Do Not Resuscitate).

DNR’s (Do Not Resuscitate) are written orders that tell a doctor, hospital, nursing home, etc. that the patient does not want to receive CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if they experience cardiac arrest. In other words, this tells medical staff not to perform emergency CPR when the patient stops breathing or their heart stops beating.

The effectiveness of CPR depends on the physical health and other factors of the patient. There are times that CPR may not work or may partially work. This means that there is a chance the patient can be left with brain damage or in worse condition then they were prior to the CPR.

All patients that are adults have the right to request DNR’s (Do Not Resuscitate). DNR’s (Do Not Resuscitate) refer only to CPR and not to any other treatment. Just like with other medical decisions, the question of ethics comes up, and that includes DNR’s (Do Not Resuscitate). However, DNR’s are accepted in the medical industry as well as in the religious community. This is because it may be what’s best under specific circumstances.

DNR’s can also be a verbal order. An adult patient would need to let the physician know with two witnesses present. Before making such a decision, it is important that you talk to your doctor to understand all of your options. This is because once you have signed a DNR order, your physician is required to follow it. If the physician does not, he would have to transfer you to another doctor who will. If you are unable to make this decision, you can appoint someone to help you.

Issuing a DNR is an extremely difficult decision. You will want to consult with an attorney to understand what the steps are and how a DNR will affect anyone you may be leaving behind. You need to understand your rights. Contact an attorney today that has experience with dealing with DNR’s. It is important for you to be able to find one attorney that can help you with all your legal needs related to your mesothelioma. You owe it to yourself and those you love to protect your rights in every way, so get started on tackling this difficult challenge.