This bill amends the Do Not Resuscitate Act in West Virginia by introducing new definitions and requirements regarding do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders. It specifically adds two new code-status categories: "Do-not-resuscitate comfort care arrest (DNR-CCA)" and "Do-not-resuscitate comfort care (DNR-CC)." The DNR-CCA allows for all medically indicated interventions until the moment of cardiac arrest, at which point CPR will not be performed. Conversely, the DNR-CC focuses solely on comfort care, withholding all life-prolonging therapies while ensuring adequate palliative measures. The bill also clarifies that DNR orders must specify the code-status category and outlines the necessary documentation and consent processes involved in issuing these orders.

Additionally, the bill mandates that hospitals and healthcare facilities adopt or amend their internal policies to reflect these new DNR categories. This includes providing staff training and incorporating standardized order sets or electronic health record templates that align with the new regulations. The intent of the bill is to enhance clarity and promote patient-centered care in end-of-life decision-making, ensuring that patients' wishes regarding resuscitation and comfort care are respected and clearly communicated.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-30C-3, 16-30C-7, 16-30C-7a