Citation

Cook R, Pan P, Silverman R, Soltys SM. Psychosomatics 2010; 51(4): 277-282.

Affiliation

correspondence and M.D., Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, P.O. Box 19642, Springfield, IL 62794-9642. ssoltys@siumed.edu.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1176/appi.psy.51.4.277

PMID

20587754

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The authors review the literature related to patients who obtain a Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) order in preparation for a suicide attempt. OBJECTIVE: The authors review the ethical issues involved in making a decision to resuscitate or not in an attempted suicide with a DNR order. METHOD: The authors address the potential legal consequences of action or inaction and clinical issues to consider before a DNR order is issued. RESULTS: DNR laws do not take into account the situation of the mentally ill person framing a DNR order as a preparation for suicide. CONCLUSION: The article recommends screening for suicidal ideation before issuing DNR orders, having clear hospital policies regarding the honoring of DNR orders if suicide is attempted, and clarification of state DNR laws regarding suicide.

Language: en