CPR Contraindications: When Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Is Not Appropriate

CPR should not be performed if:

1. Rigor mortis has set in. Rigor mortis is the stiffening of the body that occurs after death. Once rigor mortis has set in, it is impossible to perform effective CPR.

2. The person has obvious signs of decomposition. Decomposition is the process of the body breaking down after death. If the person has obvious signs of decomposition, it is unlikely that CPR will be effective.

3. The person has a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order. A DNR order is a legal document that states that the person does not want to be resuscitated if their heart stops beating or they stop breathing. CPR should not be performed if the person has a DNR order.

4. The person has a terminal illness and is near the end of life. CPR is a temporary measure that can prolong life for a short time. It is not a cure for a terminal illness and should not be used to prolong the dying process.