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Care Opinion

Communication regarding do not resuscitate

Posted By Livid89

"Communication regarding do not resuscitate"

About: Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow

(as a relative),

My elderly father was subject to two do not resuscitates on two separate occasions. On the first occasion the doctor phoned me re this matter and I said it would have to be discussed with my mother as she is his next of kin. Despite this the DNR was put in place having “ discussed with daughter” and naming a relative who did not exist ,namely correct surname but wrong first name . Shortly afterwards my father was admitted to another ward and another DNR was put in place and it was stated that the matter had been discussed with his “ two daughters “ I can state that no such conversation took place and these do not resuscitates were put in place without the necessary consent. 

I am horrified that doctors are putting these in place and and wonder about their training and the advice they are given in relation to these forms. I am,appalled that such practices take place and they cause me great concern for the well-being of our elderly relatives admitted for routine care. 

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Responses

Response from Nicole McInally, Patient Experience and Public Involvement Project Manager, PEPI, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde 4 years ago
Nicole McInally
Patient Experience and Public Involvement Project Manager, PEPI,
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

Submitted on 31/07/2019 at 11:22
Published on Care Opinion at 11:22

picture of Nicole McInally

Dear Livid89

Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback with regards your Dad’s care and our communication with you as a family.

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) decision is a considered and clinically measured decision taken by the overseeing medical staff, based on the patient’s medical illnesses and current condition. Staff are obliged to inform family members and or Power of Attorneys that such a decision has been taken. We all recognise that these discussions are difficult for all concerned. It is an opportunity for relatives and Power of Attorney’s to voice their opinions, although ultimately the decision is a medical one.

All doctors are trained in the ethics of DNR from an undergraduate at university through to postgraduate training on the job. Every DNR decision needs to involve a senior doctor I.e. a Consultant who should countersign the paperwork within 48 hours of the decision. We abide by the GMC's code of ethics and follow their advice on how to approach DNR decisions.

Clearly in this instance our staff did not undertake this conversation well or appropriately and we apologise unreservedly for this.

We would be happy to discuss the specifics of your Dad’s case and would ask that you contact Nicole McInally (Nicole.McInally@ggc.scot.nhs.uk) with your Dad’s details in order for us to investigate this further.

We apologise once again that you felt that our communication on this occasion fell short of what you would expect.

Kind regards

Morag Gardner

Chief Nurse - South Sector

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