Consider do-not-resuscitate order

THE EDITOR, Madam:

This time of the year our minds and thoughts are focused on Christmas festivities. However, in the midst of life the unexpected can occur and we must always be mindful of this. Undoubtedly, healthcare is expensive in countries without Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The World Health Organization (WHO) states UHC means that all people have access to the full range of quality health services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship. It covers the full continuum of essential health services, from health promotion to prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care.

Additionally, Goal #3 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals addresses the issue of healthy lives and the promotion of the well-being for all at all ages. The well-being regarding health care can differ according to the individual’s specific needs and long term care.

In some jurisdictions there are legal documents that address this specific aspect of healthcare for patients. A do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order is a legal document that instructs medical professionals not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patient’s heart or breathing stops.

People who choose to have a DNR usually have a terminal illness or other serious medical condition. In most situations, a healthcare provider writes a DNR order after discussing the benefits and risks of CPR with the person, their loved ones or their legal decision-maker.

Ideally, the individual would fill out a do not resuscitate form before an emergency occurs. A DNR order allows the individual to choose not to receive CPR in an emergency. The DNR order informs healthcare providers not to perform CPR if a person’s heart stops beating or their breathing stops.

No one wants to live in a vegetative state or in an undignified manner. As a result , it is important to have such a conversation with one’s health care provider and make your wishes known.

Immediate CPR can greatly increase a person’s chances of survival after cardiac arrest. The individual always has the right to change his/her mind and request that CPR be performed on them during a medical emergency. It is important to inform your healthcare provider immediately so they can start the process to revoke your DNR order. It is also critical that the individual destroy all DNR forms and identification that your provider gave you or that you are wearing. Additionally, you should inform your loved ones and other caregivers that you have changed your mind and no longer want a DNR.

Not everyone desires to be kept alive just for the sake of being alive. The quality of life is critical. Everyone has a right to respect and dignity.

WAYNE CAMPBELL