Question

A 60-year-old man with advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer has an advance decision to refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), properly documented and applicable. He now collapses on the ward and has a cardiac arrest. No pulse is felt. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Respect the advance decision and do not start CPR

Answer

Start full CPR while clarifying the documentation

Answer

Ignore the advance decision and follow the family’s wishes

Answer

Give only a single shock then stop

Answer

Provide CPR for 2 minutes then stop

Practice question

A 60-year-old man with advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer has an advance decision to refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), properly documented and applicable. He now collapses on the ward and has a cardiac arrest. No pulse is felt. What is the most appropriate action?