6 Colo. Code Regs. § 1015-2-4

Current through Register Vol. 47, No. 11, June 10, 2024
Section 6 CCR 1015-2-4 - General Protocol for Implementation of CPR Directives
4.1 Purpose
4.1.1 To provide guidance for the implementation of CPR Directives by EMS providers.
4.2. General
4.2.1 There are many ways that an individual may make his or her wishes known regarding health care, particularly end-of-life decisions.
a) This may include, but is not limited to, documents such as a living will, medical durable power of attorney, CPR Directive, or other advance directives, including those from other states.
b) Any document or item of information or instruction that clearly communicates the individual's wishes or intent regarding CPR may be regarded as valid and the individual's wishes honored.
4.2.2 An individual with a CPR Directive shall receive evaluation by EMS providers and be provided appropriate and available palliative services, treatment, and measures.
4.2.3 A valid CPR Directive constitutes lawful authority to withhold or discontinue CPR. EMS providers shall comply with an individual's CPR Directive that is apparent and immediately available.
a) "CPR" includes, but is not limited to, artificial ventilation, chest compression, delivering electric shock, placing tubes in the airway to assist breathing, or other basic and advanced resuscitative therapies.
b) A valid CPR Directive that has been photocopied, scanned, faxed or otherwise reproduced shall be honored.
4.2.4 In the absence of a CPR Directive, consent to CPR is presumed.
4.3 Procedure
4.3.1 In cases of cardiac or respiratory arrest or impending arrest, inquire whether the individual has an available CPR Directive.
4.3.2 When presented with a CPR Directive, obtain reasonable assurance that the individual is the person to whom it applies.
4.3.3 When presented with any valid CPR Directive, EMS providers shall not attempt to resuscitate that individual. If CPR has been initiated, it shall be discontinued. Local medical direction and prehospital protocols shall be followed.
4.3.4 Nothing in these rules shall be construed to require EMS providers to initiate CPR in the absence of a CPR Directive.

6 CCR 1015-2-4

42 CR 21, November 10, 2019, effective 12/15/2019