The Scottish Government is facing calls to investigate widespread use of “Do Not Resuscitate” notices on unwitting patients.
Scottish Labour health spokesperson Jackie Baillie said: “The revelations in the Record are shocking and distressing. We need an investigation to ensure DNRs are appropriately used and with proper communication with patients. Linda Henderson, from Perth, was shocked to find a note on her medical file that said “obese” and “Do Not Resuscitate”. The 72-year-old former housing manager believes she was not meant to see the guidance, which was given to her among assorted belongings after a stay at Perth Royal Infirmary last year.She said: “I don’t think I was meant to see the file and I was horrified when I did.
Last week we told how Fiona, 44, from Clydebank, discovered the DNACPR notice while travelling in an ambulance after an infection led to a flare-up in a heart arrythmia. Public Health Scotland said it has no role in issuing clinical guidance beyond public health. Clinicians use DNACPR notices on many patients they feel would have a very low chance of responding to very punishing CPR methods, particularly those with respiratory problems and a risk of brittle bones.