Tangled Terminology: Avoiding the ethical pitfalls of misnomers in decision-making language

Presented by: Cindy Bruzzese, MPA, MSB, HEC-C: Executive Director & Clinical Ethicist, Vermont Ethics Network; Clinical Ethicist, UVM Medical Center

Medical decision-making terminology can be confusing and sometimes the words we use convey a meaning that was not intended (i.e. a preference for CPR in an advance directive is not equivalent to a DNR order). This session will untangle the acronyms and terms, highlight potential pitfalls and underscore the importance of language when it comes to health care decisions.