If a patient has a valid DNR order, which action is not expected to be performed?

• A. Initiating CPR.
• B. Providing standard DNR care while ignoring wishes.
• C. Starting CPR only if consent is obtained.
• D. CPR should not be performed.

Answer: (D)

A valid Do Not Resuscitate order means no CPR will be performed if the patient experiences cardiac or respiratory arrest. This respects the patient’s autonomy and avoids a procedure that the patient has chosen not to undergo, focusing instead on comfort and other non-resuscitative care as appropriate. So the action that is not expected is to perform CPR, since the DNR directs healthcare providers not to initiate resuscitation. The idea behind this is that the order applies specifically to CPR; it does not imply withholding all care, and it does not require consent at the moment CPR would be considered—quoting the standing directive is what guides the response.