Significant U.S. research shows that clinicians often misinterpret and misapply advance directives, POLSTs, and DNR orders. This new powerful letter in a Malaysian newspaper illustrates the problem. Here are excerpts.
"DNR is intended to mean that in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, no resuscitative efforts should be made. It does not mean that the patient is to be neglected, denied care, or worse, left to die alone and unattended."
"In the last few days, I witnessed how my friend was bypassed for basic medical attention, his intravenous drip was allowed to run dry unnoticed, his bed sores were getting worse, his monitors were not calibrated well, and the alarm was constantly ringing to deaf ears. His physical needs were unmet. He was left in discomfort."
"A DNR patient is still a human being. He deserves comfort. He deserves attention."
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