16. Making decisions about CPR

Question 1

Under what circumstances would it be justifiable to make a DNACPR decision without involing a patient or those cloe to them?

Answer 1

1. When the conversation is believed to cause significant physical or psychological harm
2. When the patient does not have capacity and it is impossible/impractical to contact those close to them

Question 2

Ideally, when should a DNACPR discussion and decision be made?

Answer 2

Before an expected crisis where it would be needed (i.e. when the patient is well)

Question 3

Should a DNACPR decision automatically warrant deactivation of an ICD?

Answer 3

No, some patients who have a DNACPR decision in place may still choose to have ICD remain active

Question 4

Under what circumstances would it be reasonable to stop CPR?

Answer 4

Asystole for more than 20 minutes in the absence of any reversible causes and will all reasonable ALS measures applied