Question: A patient requires assisted ventilations via BVM for shortness of breath for CHF or for exacerbated asthma, can we assisted ventilations for this patient. I understand that we cannot perform artificial respirations for a patient who is apneic, but can we assist ventilations with a patient who is conscious and breathing on their own, but needs assistance? Patient has a valid DNR.

 Great question. The insertion of an oropharyngeal airway and bagging the patient would be considered artificial ventilation and this is specifically contraindicated on the DNR confirmation form.

A copy of this form can be found on our website here:http://www.lhsc.on.ca/About_Us/Base_Hospital_Program/No.108V.1.0DNRStandard.pdf

DNR,Miscellaneous

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