In a DNR-CCA scenario, what type of treatment is given until cardiac or respiratory arrest occurs?

In a Do Not Resuscitate - Comfort Care Arrest (DNR-CCA) scenario, the approach to patient management is crucial for respecting the patient's wishes while still providing compassionate care. The correct answer involves the provision of protocol-based treatment, which means that while resuscitation efforts are not to be initiated in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, other medical interventions are still permissible before such an event occurs.

Protocol-based treatment includes the administration of medications for pain relief, symptom management, and other supportive care measures that contribute to the patient’s comfort. This approach is in alignment with a philosophy of care that prioritizes quality of life and dignity, honoring the decision of the individual who has chosen DNR-CCA status.

The other options do not align with the guidelines governing DNR-CCA. Simply providing comfort measures alone would not encompass the full range of relevant interventions that can be applied before an arrest occurs, whereas completely refraining from treatment would neglect the responsibilities of care prior to such an event. Advanced life support measures are specifically excluded under DNR-CCA guidelines, emphasizing that while some therapeutic actions are warranted, aggressive resuscitative efforts are not part of the protocol once an arrest has taken place.