If CPR is deemed ‘futile’; should a DNR order be written?

If CPR is judged to be medically futile, this means that you as the physician are under no obligation to provide it. Nevertheless, the patient and/or their family should still have a role in the decision about a Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) order. This involvement stems from respect for all people to take part in important life decisions, commonly referred to as respect for autonomy or respect for person.

If CPR is judged to be medically futile, this means that you as the physician are under no obligation to provide it. Nevertheless, the patient and/or their family should still have a role in the decision about a Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) order. This involvement stems from respect for all people to take part in important life decisions, commonly referred to as respect for autonomy or respect for person.
In many cases, the patient/family, upon being given a caring but frank understanding of the clinical situation, will agree with the DNR order. In such cases a DNR order can be written. Each hospital has specific procedures for writing a valid DNR order. In all cases, the order must be written or cosigned by the Attending Physician.