Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What are the contraindications of performing CPR?

1. Obviously Dead

2. Arrest believed to be of non-cardiac origin

3. Altered Level of Awareness

4. DNR conditions are met

The correct answer is: DNR conditions are met

The correct understanding of contraindications for performing CPR involves recognizing that there are specific circumstances under which CPR should not be initiated. One significant reason is when "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR) conditions are clearly established and legally documented. DNR orders are put in place to respect a patient's wishes when they have an advanced illness or are nearing the end of life, indicating that they do not want resuscitative efforts if they go into cardiac arrest. When a DNR is present, healthcare providers are ethically and legally obligated to refrain from performing CPR, as this would violate the patient’s expressed wishes for end-of-life care. It’s essential to adhere to these directives to honor the dignity and autonomy of the patient in such sensitive situations. In contrast, other situations—such as an obviously dead patient or a recognized and documented non-cardiac origin of arrest—may also guide decisions around initiating CPR but do not specifically negate the legal and ethical importance of DNR orders. Therefore, understanding the implications of DNR is crucial for paramedics in determining when to withhold resuscitation efforts.