The Department of Health and Social Care has asked the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to review how Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR) decisions were used during the coronavirus pandemic.
Earlier in the year concerns were widely reported that elderly and vulnerable people may be being subjected to DNACPR decisions without their consent or with little information to allow them to make an informed decision.
The CQC said the scope and methodology of this work are being developed at pace but it is expected to look at people’s experiences in care homes, primary care and hospitals.
Interim findings are expected to be reported later this year with a final report in early 2021.
Dr Rosie Benneyworth (pictured), CQC chief inspector of primary medical services and integrated care, said: “Along with partners we have been clear that it is unacceptable for advance care plans, with or without Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) form completion, to be applied to groups of people of any description.
“These decisions must continue to be made on an individual basis according to need. Through this review we will look to identify and share best practice in this complex area, as well as identifying where decisions may not have been patient-centred and ensuring mistakes are not repeated,” she added.
