North Carolina CNA Written Practice Exam

How often should DNR orders be reviewed with patients?

1. Only upon admission to the hospital

2. At every healthcare visit

3. Once a year only

4. When the patient requests it

The correct answer is: At every healthcare visit

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is an important medical directive indicating that a patient does not want to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the event of cardiac arrest. Regular review of DNR orders is essential to ensure that they reflect the patient's current wishes and medical condition. Patients’ health statuses and preferences can change over time due to various factors such as new diagnoses, treatments, or changes in personal beliefs regarding end-of-life care. By reviewing DNR orders at every healthcare visit, healthcare providers can verify that the order remains in alignment with the patient's current wishes and ensure that it is still applicable given their health situation. This ongoing communication helps to foster a collaborative approach between providers and patients and helps ensure that patients are receiving the care that they desire. When DNR orders are only reviewed during specific instances like admission, once a year, or solely upon patient request, it limits the opportunity for necessary updates based on evolving health conditions or shifts in personal decisions. Regular reviews promote patient autonomy, transparency, and better alignment of healthcare delivery with the patient's goals of care.