Code status simply means the emergent treatment the patient would receive in case the patient becomes pulseless or stops breathing. This topic can be very confusing for many especially those with no medical background. It is not often fully discussed until the patient is critically ill and there is doubt on full recovery or medical prognosis. Ideally, the code status should be decided before a crisis arises. This course will look into the different terms associated with the patient’s code status and will explain the differences in terms of emergency interventions.
Learning Objectives Understanding Code Status:
- Define the importance of knowing the patient’s code status.
- Understand common terms in emergency resuscitation.
- Understand what “Do Not Resuscitate” means as it relates to hospitalization and medical treatment.
- Recognize legal documents POLST and Advance Directives.
- Explore complications with patients with no clear advance directives, ethical considerations on patients who are not alert, and no one can make informed medical decisions.