The do not resuscitate order (DNR) from the perspective of oncology nurses: A study in Saudi Arabia

Purpose Issues related to life and death are largely influenced by the culture and religious beliefs of a society. This research aimed to survey a sample of oncology nurses in Saudi Arabia about their attitude towards the do not resuscitate order (DNR). Method A cross‐sectional design was employed. A survey was sent to 190 nurses in the Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) in King Fahad Medical City (KFMC). A total of 157 nurses with a diploma or higher degree agreed to participate in the study. Results Many nurses showed a neutral attitude regarding DNR to cancer patients and/or their families 2.4 ± 0.4. Moreover, the results of the multiple logistic regression tests revealed that all the listed factors are not associated with the attitude towards DNR orders (P > .05). Conclusion It is generally believed that nurses the faith and background of nurses from Muslim countries has a profound influence on their attitude towards DNR. However, this was not the picture that was revealed by the results of this study. In this study, all the nurses made it clear that they wanted to know about the autonomy of patients in respect of DNR orders. Implication to clinical practice It is necessary to develop programmes that address the DNR order and respect patient autonomy and rights. Moreover, hospital policies that address the issues of DNR order are required for all end‐of‐life care.