When to Stop CPR
The decision to stop performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) must be made with careful consideration. Generally, CPR should be stopped when the patient’s heart has been restarted and is beating on its own. Additionally, if a patient has been resuscitated but their vital signs remain weak and there is no improvement over a prolonged period of time, it may be time to stop CPR.
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is a set of protocols and guidelines that are used to manage a person’s cardiac arrest. It includes guidelines for when to stop CPR, as well as when to start and continue CPR. In general, ACLS protocols recommend that CPR should be stopped when the patient’s heart rate is greater than 60 beats per minute, the patient has regained consciousness, or the patient has been declared dead by a healthcare provider.
Signs of Death
When a patient has been declared dead by a healthcare provider, it is time to stop CPR. Signs of death include the absence of a pulse, the absence of breathing, and the absence of consciousness. Additionally, if the patient’s pupils are fixed and dilated, this is a sign that they have died.
Patient Refusal
It is important to note that a patient can refuse CPR at any time. If the patient is conscious and has the capacity to make decisions, their wishes must be respected. They have the right to refuse medical treatment, and this includes CPR. In the event that a patient refuses CPR, the healthcare provider should document this in the patient’s medical record.
Conclusion
CPR should generally be stopped when the patient’s heart has been restarted and is beating on its own. Additionally, if a patient has been resuscitated but their vital signs remain weak and there is no improvement over a prolonged period of time, it may be time to stop CPR. Additionally, a patient can refuse CPR at any time. If the patient is conscious and has the capacity to make decisions, their wishes must be respected. Finally, signs of death include the absence of a pulse, the absence of breathing, and the absence of consciousness.
