title: Do not attempt resuscitation decisions in a cancer centre: addressing difficult ethical and communication issues.
abstract: Talking to patients about 'Do Not Attempt Resuscitation' decisions is difficult for many doctors. Communication about 'Do Not Attempt Resuscitation' decisions should occur as part of a wider discussion of treatment goals at an earlier stage in the patient's illness. A doctor should not initiate any treatment, including cardio-pulmonary resuscitation if he/she does not believe it will benefit the patient. An ethical framework is offered which may be of practical help in clarifying decision-making.
authors.affiliation: Three Counties Cancer Network, Cheltenham General Hospital, Cheltenham G53 7AN, UK.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Reid
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Jeffrey
mesh_terms: D002173:Cancer Care Facilities; D003142:Communication; D003657:Decision Making; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D005195:Family Relations; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D018447:Medical Futility; D010344:Patient Advocacy; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D016414:Resuscitation Orders