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Why Can’t CPR Be Performed in Some Assisted Living Facilities?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
With over a decade of dedicated experience, Andrea Miller boasts an extensive background in healthcare writing and editing. Her expertise spans various facets of the healthcare industry, with a particular focus on nursing, senior care, Alzheimer’s disease, and public health. Andrea has also contributed her editorial talents to reputable publishers in the Philadelphia region, complementing her extensive freelance work.
Reviewed by:
Dr. Brindusa Vanta is a health care professional, researcher, and an experienced medical writer (2000+ articles published online and several medical ebooks). She received her MD degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine, Romania, and her HD diploma from OCHM – Toronto, Canada.
Staff can’t perform CPR in some assisted living facilities because of policies prohibiting cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Assisted living centers often create this type of policy to protect patients from harm associated with CPR. Conversely, nursing homes legally must provide CPR and other forms of basic life support.
Should I choose an assisted living center that gives CPR?
You should choose an assisted living center that gives CPR if you want to receive this type of life-saving treatment when needed. If you prefer staff not perform CPR in case of an emergency, you can request a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order. Put your wishes in writing and notify your loved ones and your physician. You may also want to consider selecting an assisted living facility with a no-CPR policy.
Does CPR save lives?
CPR saves lives in some cases, but it doesn’t always work as expected. Complications of CPR include rib and sternum fractures, internal bleeding and airway complications. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 25% of people survive a cardiac arrest after receiving CPR promptly in a hospital setting, compared to 11% of those who receive CPR after a cardiac arrest outside the hospital.
Older adults and people with a severe or chronic illness have a higher risk of CPR complications. However, most people should receive CPR when they lose consciousness, stop breathing or collapse and fail to respond.
What happens after someone receives CPR?
Individuals should be transferred to the hospital right away after a health incident requiring CPR. Recovery depends on the underlying health condition, their overall health and other factors. Unfortunately, many people don’t survive a cardiac arrest, even with CPR.
Most people take a few weeks to a few months to recover after cardiac arrest. During this time, you may notice issues with memory, concentration and learning. Some individuals develop anxiety or depression after surviving a cardiac arrest. If a brain injury results from cardiac arrest, physical and occupational therapy sometimes help the person regain function.