A client with a terminal illness asks the nurse, “If I have a DNR prescription, does that mean I will no longer receive any treatment for my condition?” Which of the following statements should the nurse provide to explain a DNR prescription?

Choice A rationale
A DNR prescription does not mean that the patient will only receive pain medication for their treatments. A DNR order simply means that if the patient’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing, medical staff will not attempt resuscitation3.
Choice B rationale
A DNR prescription does not necessarily limit a patient’s current treatment regimen. It only specifies that CPR will not be performed in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Other treatments can still be provided based on the patient’s wishes and the medical team’s recommendations3.
Choice C rationale
A DNR prescription allows a patient to continue with their current treatment regimen. The DNR order only comes into effect if the patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing3.
Choice D rationale
While a DNR prescription may limit the ability to receive invasive procedures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, it does not limit other forms of treatment. The patient can still receive treatments that align with their goals of care3.

Choice A rationale
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, irritating the lining and causing symptoms like heartburn. Protonix (pantoprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. While it is used to treat GERD, it is not typically used prophylactically in trauma patients.
Choice B rationale
Stress ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer that is particularly common in critically ill or severely stressed patients, such as those with severe trauma like an automobile accident. These ulcers occur when the body’s physical stress leads to increased gastric acid secretion, which can damage the gastric mucosa and lead to ulcers. Protonix, by reducing stomach acid, can help prevent these ulcers in high-risk patients. This is why it is often administered prophylactically in severe trauma cases.
Choice C rationale
Dumping syndrome is a condition that can occur after surgery to remove all or part of your stomach or after surgery to bypass your stomach to help you lose weight. It’s also known as rapid gastric emptying. Protonix is not typically used to prevent dumping syndrome.
Choice D rationale
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. While Protonix can be used to treat gastritis, it is not typically used prophylactically for this condition in trauma patients.