Can a patient choose to have a CPR order and also choose to have an order for DNI?
No. These preferences are inconsistent and reflect a lack of understanding of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Choosing CPR implies accepting the entire array of treatments in an emergency situation without limitations. Since intubation is required after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the presumption in the case of full cardiopulmonary arrest is that the patient agrees to intubation and mechanical ventilation. Thus, all patients who prefer DNI should also have a DNR order.
