The Paralympian Helene Raynsford has shone a light on the distress caused when DNR (do not resuscitate) decisions and conversations are not done appropriately (Paralympian Helene Raynsford was asked to sign ‘do not resuscitate’ form, 22 November). This is symptomatic of longstanding issues with communication around DNRs, which were exacerbated during the pandemic. To base these decisions on assumptions about someone’s disability or age is not only unacceptable, it is also unlawful. Doing so can have a catastrophic impact on people’s trust in the healthcare system, and can result in them being denied appropriate life-saving treatment.
Making assumptions based on disability or age also undermines the essential role that DNR decisions play in end-of-life care. When made and communicated properly, these decisions protect patients from invasive and often futile treatment that can do more harm than good. They can also open up important conversations about someone’s wishes for end of life.
