Under what condition can you withhold care from a DNR patient?

Withholding care from a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) patient is appropriate when there is a valid Non-Hospital DNR order in place. A Non-Hospital DNR typically signifies that the patient has made an informed decision regarding their end-of-life medical care, specifically indicating that they do not wish to receive resuscitative measures in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest outside of a hospital setting.

When first responders encounter a DNR order, they must verify its validity and understand the specific conditions under which it applies. In this case, the existence of a valid Non-Hospital DNR order provides legally and ethically binding guidance. It indicates that the patient's wishes are clear and that resuscitative efforts should not be pursued.

Other conditions listed do not provide a sufficient basis for withholding care without the proper documentation that clearly indicates the patient's intentions. It is crucial to adhere strictly to recognized medical protocols and legal frameworks regarding DNR orders to ensure respect for patient autonomy and informed decision-making.