DNACPR Decisions

(asked on 2nd February 2022) - View Source

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answers by Lord Kamall (HL5606 and HL5607), whether, in the case of a do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNACPR) notice being issued against the expressed wish of a patient or their family, (1) the patient, (2) their family, or (3) both, will be notified of the decision in good time for a second opinion and review to be sought and undertaken.


Answered by
Lord Kamall Portrait
Lord Kamall
Shadow Minister (Health and Social Care)
This question was answered on 11th February 2022

When a Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR) decision is being made, the clinician should consider the patient’s wishes and every effort should be taken to reach an agreement with the patient or, if they lack capacity, their family or representative. If the patient or their family or representative do not agree with the decision, they should be given time to ask for a second opinion or review. This is in line with the National Health Service guidance for DNACPR decisions.

When a DNACPR decision is made the patient should also be told when it will be reviewed, and this is usually recorded on the DNACPR form. It is recommended that a DNACPR decision is reviewed each time a patient’s situation changes, for example when they leave hospital. If a patient is concerned about a DNACPR decision, they can contact their local Healthwatch to find out about how to get help making a complaint.

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