Question
What if a family member tells the caregiver to do cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when Portable Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) says, “Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR)”?
Answer
Facilities should establish policies to manage legal risk in these situations since it may be difficult to determine if the family member is the legal surrogate in an emergency. A competent adult patient or legal surrogate may always change their medical decisions and request alternative treatment.
Death with Dignity (Aid-in-Dying): Role of the Nurse Advisory Opinion
Washington State Department of Health: Portable Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST)
Washington State Medical Association:
FAQ Category
Portable Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment
Audience