Do-not-resuscitate orders - experiences and attitudes of relatives

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of relatives of seriously ill patients with do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders. Methods: The relatives of 21 patients who died with a DNR order were invited 3-6 months later to talk about their experiences before, at the time of, and after the death of the patient. Results: Although many of the relatives complained about the patients being moved around a lot in the hospital, most were satisfied with the medical therapy, the care, and the communication with the physicians and nurses. Almost all of them seemed to be well informed about the bad prognosis of the patient, and many mentioned that life support was no option. However, only one relative spontaneously mentioned that DNR was ordered. Conclusions: It is important to include patients' relatives in DNR decisions after careful planning and timing of the conversation. It is also best to avoid moving patients around too much in order to provide continuity for patients, relatives, physicians, and nurses.