An evidence summary inspired by safety discussions held at the Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s Safety Summit

Why is decision-making regarding Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) a patient safety concern? Failures in Do Not Attempt CPR (DNACPR) policy, and gaps between policy and practice, are likely to lead to adverse consequences for patients and their families.
What guidance is available on decisions relating to CPR? The British Medical Association (BMA), the Resuscitation Council (UK), and the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) have issued guidance regarding anticipatory decisions about whether or not to attempt resuscitation in a person when their heart stops or they stop breathing.

Date of publication: Jan 2018

Tagged: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation