Understanding your options for emergency care
Decisions about emergency treatment can feel difficult, but understanding your options can help you make choices that reflect what matters most to you.
These decisions are often called code status. They guide your care team in an emergency if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
What is code status?
Code status refers to the emergency treatment you would or would not want if your heart stops or you are unable to breathe on your own.
Your options may include:
- Full code: All emergency measures, including CPR and a breathing tube
- DNR (Do not resuscitate): No CPR if your heart stops
- DNI (Do not intubate): No breathing tube or ventilator if you cannot breathe on your own
Some people choose both a DNR and DNI. Others may choose one and not the other.
Choosing a code status does not mean stopping care. You will still receive appropriate treatment for comfort, symptoms and other health needs.
What is a DNR?
A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order means your care team will not perform CPR if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
CPR is an emergency procedure that may include chest compressions, electric shocks, medicines and breathing support. For some people, it can be lifesaving. But it does not always work and may not restore someone to their previous level of health. In people with serious illness, it can also cause complications or prolong the dying process.
A DNR does not mean stopping all care. You will still receive other appropriate treatment, including care for comfort, pain relief and other health needs.
What is a DNI?
A Do Not Intubate (DNI) order means your care team will not place a breathing tube or use a ventilator if you cannot breathe well enough on your own.
Intubation is a procedure that places a tube into the airway to help with breathing, usually with a ventilator. For some people, it can provide important short-term support. But it is also an invasive treatment often used in critical illness and may involve intensive care, sedation and a difficult recovery.
Questions to ask your provider
Talking with your provider can help you understand what to expect and which option is right for you. These decisions can also be revisited over time if your health or wishes change.
- Is CPR likely to help in my situation?
- What would recovery likely look like?
- Would I need a breathing tube or ventilator?
- What happens if I choose DNR, DNI or both?
- How can I make sure my wishes are clearly documented?