One of the most touching stories I have ever heard about a “Do Not Resuscitate” order was told by Dr. Atul Gawande in his best-selling book, Being Mortal.
Dr. Gawande is a nationally recognized surgeon. His father, who was also a surgeon, was diagnosed with inoperable cancer when he was in his early 70s. Although everything possible was done for Dr. Gawande’s father, his condition deteriorated to the point that he was confined to bed. He was adamant that he did not want to be in pain, and did not want to be resuscitated.
Dr. Gawande’s father eventually began to receive hospice care at his home, and was given medications for comfort. Dr. Gawande’s mother, who is also a doctor, stayed by his side. However, when she couldn’t wake him up and his skin began to turn blue, she panicked and called 911. When Dr. Gawande’s father woke up in the hospital, he was furious!
This story illustrates the conflicts associated with “Do Not Resuscitate” orders and end-of-life decisions. Even doctors are not immune to the strong emotions they incite.
I highly recommend the video Being Mortal, which was aired on PBS in 2015, and in which Dr. Atul Gawande discusses end-of-life issues in detail.