The wife has power of attorney and is able to make decisions on the patient’s behalf when he is unresponsive. She has the right and legal authority to rescind his DNR. Explaining to the wife that he will not be resuscitated is incorrect as she has the right to make this decision. While it would be good for the doctor to explain to the patient’s wife why he should have DNR status, lifesaving care should not be delayed. While the hospital’s ethics committee would be an ideal resource for determining the best course of action in this circumstance, waiting for guidance from them would delay care and result in the patient’s certain death. An immediate decision must be made.