Does Detailed Informed Consent for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Mechanical Ventilation Impact Patients' Decisions and Outcomes?

Does Detailed Informed Consent for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Mechanical Ventilation Impact Patients' Decisions and Outcomes?

There is evidence to suggest that patients make different end-of-life decisions if they understand the risks, benefits and alternatives of CPR and mechanical ventilation. This study will examine whether evidence-based informed consent impacts patients choices and healthcare outcomes compared to routine care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients
• ≥65 yrs
• Admitted to the hospitalist Medicine Service

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who have pre-existing, pan-institutional (e.g. to be applied at nursing homes and hospitals) orders of no CPR and/or no mechanical ventilation will be screened (demographic and outcomes data collected) but NOT randomized.
• Patients already receiving critical care on admission will also be excluded