DNAR and Anaesthesia — FRCA Final MCQ

Correct answer: D — The DNAR should be reviewed and a specific perioperative plan documented in discussion with the patient

A DNAR order should be reviewed and discussed with the patient (or their representative) before any procedure requiring anaesthesia. A blanket approach of either suspending or maintaining all DNAR orders perioperatively is inappropriate. The discussion should clarify which interventions are acceptable (e.g., the patient may consent to treatment of anaesthetic-related cardiovascular collapse but decline CPR for irreversible cardiac arrest). A specific, individualised perioperative ceiling-of-treatment plan should be documented.

Reference: RCOA – 2023 – DNAR and perioperative care; Association of Anaesthetists – 2019 – DNAR decisions and anaesthesia