Discussing CPR near the end of life

Abstract

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation can save a life, but is invasive and traumatic. Leaving people in the "default" position of receiving CPR if they go into cardiorespiratory arrest can result in treatment that is unwanted or offers no benefit. Updated guidance by the British Medical Association, the Resuscitation Council (UK) and the Royal College of Nursing states that good clinical practice includes making advanced individualised CPR decisions for people who are near the end of life or at risk of cardiorespiratory arrest. Staff should involve patients and/or their loved ones in the.decision-making process to reduce the risk of administering unwanted treatment.