I'm in the same ballpark with everyone else -

This patient did not need resuscitation. She was still beating and breathing - she needed treatment for self-inflicted lacerations and suicidal behavior.

Now, if they had found her without a pulse or breathing, she would have been in an arrest and the DNR would have been in effect.

To me resuscitation means actions to re-start a heart or breathe for someone when they stop. If they are doing those things on their own, they don't need resuscitation and the DNR does not apply.

And I agree with MJ, depression is a biggie here and often undiagnosed in the elderly.

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The ER is the only place where you are rewarded for efficiency by getting more patients!

Kim
http://www.emergiblog.com