1. Full Code means you want everything done to save your life. This includes intubation (placing a breathing tube in your mouth and into your trachea to provide an airway so you can breathe). Oxygen is then provided using a ventilator (breathing machine). Chest compressions are performed if your heart stops and medications are given to help get it back started. Defibrillation (shock) to your heart if it goes into a rhythm where the heart is fibrillating (quivering).
2. Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) means if your heart stops or you stop breathing we let you go in peace.
3. Do Not Intubate which means chest compressions can be done and medications can be given but you do not desire a tube placed in your mouth and throat to help you breathe. This option in my opinion is useless. It doesn't matter if your heart is beating if you can't breathe!
4. Medications Only which means we can give medications if you stop breathing or your heart stops but you don't want chest compressions or a tube to help you breathe. This option also is useless in my opinion because if the medication can't circulate through your body (by the bloodstream) it can't do any good.
Also talk to your family and let them know you have put your wishes in writing and ask them to respect them. Most times families bypass the wishes of their loved one and do just the opposite of what they wanted. Don't be afraid to discuss it! Get the facts about code statuses and make your wishes known!
