Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency procedure involving chest compressions and rescue breaths performed to manually preserve brain function until further measures are taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in a person who is in cardiac arrest. Knowing the specific circumstances under which this intervention should be discontinued is critical for both trained medical professionals and lay responders.
The decision to cease resuscitative efforts is a serious one with significant ethical and legal implications. Factors influencing this decision often involve assessing the likelihood of successful resuscitation, considering the patient’s pre-existing conditions, and adhering to established protocols. Historically, guidance on this determination has evolved as medical understanding of cardiac arrest and its reversibility has advanced. Clear guidelines protect both the patient and the rescuer.