In the event a patient’s advance directive states no intubation and no CPR, what is the best response when a code blue is initiated?

When a patient’s advance directive explicitly states no intubation and no CPR, the best response when a code blue is initiated is to inform the team about the advance directive. This directive is a legally binding document that communicates the patient’s wishes regarding their medical treatment in critical situations. By informing the team, you ensure that the patient's rights and preferences are respected, preventing unnecessary and possibly distressing interventions that the patient does not want.

In a medical emergency, the team may not be aware of the advance directive unless clearly communicated. Bringing this information to their attention promptly can guide the team in making decisions that align with the patient’s wishes. It is crucial to uphold the ethical principle of respecting patient autonomy, which is central to medical practice.

Other options might imply actions that could go against the patient's wishes. For example, assisting during the code blue without acknowledging the advance directive would not honor the patient's decisions. Expressing condolences to the family is appropriate in a different context, usually after the situation has unfolded, rather than during the initiation of a medical emergency response. Seeking clarification on the advance directive might delay critical decisions that should be made in adherence to the patient’s stated preferences. Thus, notifying the team is the most immediate and respectful course of action to take