A recent viral video featuring a healthcare worker’s emotional account of adhering to a patient’s Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order has ignited widespread discussions across Nigeria regarding medical ethics, patient rights, and end-of-life care.
In the video, the healthcare professional tearfully recounts the experience of not intervening as a patient passed away, in compliance with the patient’s explicit DNR directive. This poignant narrative has elicited mixed reactions on social media platforms, with users expressing both support and criticism.
Understanding DNR Orders
A DNR order is a medical directive indicating that a patient does not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Such orders are typically established after thorough discussions between patients, their families, and healthcare providers, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are clearly understood and documented. Importantly, a DNR order does not mean the cessation of all medical treatments; rather, it specifically pertains to the withholding of CPR. Other forms of care aimed at comfort and quality of life continue unabated.
Global Trends and Ethical Considerations
The emotional toll on healthcare workers following patient deaths has been a subject of global attention. In 2022, a trend emerged where healthcare professionals shared their grief and experiences on platforms like TikTok after losing patients. While some viewed these expressions as a means for caregivers to process their emotions, others criticized them as unprofessional and attention-seeking.
The implementation of DNR orders carries significant ethical implications. The American Nurses Association emphasizes that care for patients with DNR orders should be consistent with that of any other patient, upholding respect, advocacy, and the alleviation of suffering.
The Nigerian Context
In Nigeria, the concept of DNR orders is not as widely understood or discussed as in some other countries. The recent viral video has, therefore, opened up crucial conversations about patient autonomy, the role of healthcare providers, and the cultural perceptions surrounding end-of-life decisions. It highlights the need for clear policies, public awareness, and education on the rights of patients to make informed choices about their care.
As the discourse continues, it is evident that addressing the complexities of DNR orders requires a balanced approach that respects patient wishes, supports healthcare workers, and considers the ethical and cultural dimensions unique to the Nigerian healthcare landscape.
