Australian nurses' experiences and attitudes in the "do not resuscitate" decision

The effects of Australian nurses' (n=285) awareness of a "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR) policy and various practice settings on the DNR decision were examined. A questionnaire, developed by the investigator, was used to gauge nurses' experiences and attitudes in DNR practice. Decision making was not significantly affected by nurses' awareness of a DNR policy in hospitals where a policy was present. Although nurses believed that the patient, next-of-kin, and nurse should play a predominant role in the DNR decision, medical staff were usually responsible for the decision. Various strategies are suggested as to how nurses could make a greater impact on the DNR decision.