Which statement best describes the relationship between DNAR orders and SNS?

Which statement best describes the relationship between DNAR orders and SNS?

• A. DNAR orders require stopping SNS immediately.
• B. DNAR orders have no effect on SNS; SNS should be used only after resuscitation attempts.
• C. DNAR allows time-limited SNS if indicated; can be stopped if goals not met.
• D. DNAR prohibits SNS altogether.

Answer: (C)

DNAR mainly addresses whether CPR will be attempted in the event of cardiac arrest. It does not automatically stop all other forms of supportive care. If a non-CPR intervention (the SNS in this scenario) is appropriate within the patient’s goals of care, it can be used for a limited period to assess its benefit. If the goals aren’t met or the burdens outweigh the benefits, that intervention can be stopped. This reflects how DNAR is typically used in practice: it preserves the patient’s autonomy and allows careful, goal-driven decision-making about which measures are worth pursuing. The other options overgeneralize DNAR by either mandating immediate cessation of all supportive measures, stating DNAR has no effect on SNS, or saying DNAR prohibits SNS altogether. Those views don’t align with how DNAR is intended to function in patient-centered care.

DNAR mainly addresses whether CPR will be attempted in the event of cardiac arrest. It does not automatically stop all other forms of supportive care. If a non-CPR intervention (the SNS in this scenario) is appropriate within the patient’s goals of care, it can be used for a limited period to assess its benefit. If the goals aren’t met or the burdens outweigh the benefits, that intervention can be stopped.

This reflects how DNAR is typically used in practice: it preserves the patient’s autonomy and allows careful, goal-driven decision-making about which measures are worth pursuing. The other options overgeneralize DNAR by either mandating immediate cessation of all supportive measures, stating DNAR has no effect on SNS, or saying DNAR prohibits SNS altogether. Those views don’t align with how DNAR is intended to function in patient-centered care.