Rescinding DNR orders in the operating room

Abstract

Explore surgical options within the context of goals of care in an elderly woman with end stage COPD who presents with a cecal volvulus. The surgeon guides us through discussions about whether or not to pursue surgery, if and for how long to rescind the DNR, how to deal with the inevitable complications and final decline of the patient, how to support colleagues, how to prognosticate, and how to use best-case/worst-case scenarios.