When a patient with a DNR is discharged, what safety precaution should be ensured?

When a patient with a DNR is discharged, what safety precaution should be ensured?

• A. A DNR bracelet
• B. Medication reconciliation form
• C. A meal plan
• D. A fasting order

Answer: (A)

Discharge safety for a patient with a Do Not Resuscitate order centers on making resuscitation preferences immediately clear to any clinician or emergency responder, no matter where the patient goes. A DNR bracelet provides a portable, visible cue that CPR should not be attempted if the patient’s heart or breathing stops, which is crucial when records aren’t instantly accessible or the patient is in an unfamiliar setting. This simple identification helps ensure the patient’s wishes are honored across transitions of care, such as discharge to home or transfer to another facility. Other discharge tasks like medication reconciliation or meal planning are important for overall safety, but they don’t convey resuscitation preferences. While the chart should reflect and communicate the DNR status to the receiving team, the bracelet serves as an immediate, bedside reminder to all providers.

Discharge safety for a patient with a Do Not Resuscitate order centers on making resuscitation preferences immediately clear to any clinician or emergency responder, no matter where the patient goes. A DNR bracelet provides a portable, visible cue that CPR should not be attempted if the patient’s heart or breathing stops, which is crucial when records aren’t instantly accessible or the patient is in an unfamiliar setting. This simple identification helps ensure the patient’s wishes are honored across transitions of care, such as discharge to home or transfer to another facility. Other discharge tasks like medication reconciliation or meal planning are important for overall safety, but they don’t convey resuscitation preferences. While the chart should reflect and communicate the DNR status to the receiving team, the bracelet serves as an immediate, bedside reminder to all providers.