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<p>The Department expects National Health Service trusts and NHS foundation trusts
to have in place local policies on resuscitation that are based on expert professional
guidance. We have commended, as a basis for local policies, professional guidance,
Decisions Relating to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (2014), published jointly by the
British Medical Association, the Resuscitation Council (UK) and the Royal College
of Nursing. The guidance is clear that any resuscitation decision must be tailored
to the individual circumstances of the patient and must not be made on the basis of
blanket assumptions. A copy of the guidance is attached.</p><p>Where a person lacks
capacity to make decisions about their care or treatment, the Mental Capacity Act
makes clear that doctors must act in the best interests of patients. Doctors must
take account as far as possible of the known wishes of the person and consult with
relatives and colleagues as appropriate to help inform their decision.</p><p>Departmental
officials have recently contacted the Trust about recent media coverage concerning
an incident when Down’s syndrome was listed as a reason to issue a Do Not Resuscitate
order. The Trust confirms it accepts that it failed to consult with the family and
has apologised unreservedly for this isolated incident by a junior doctor.</p><br
/><p>In regards to any disciplinary action taken against the doctor this would be
an operational issue for the Foundation Trust. We have written to Ms Nikki Cole, Chair
of East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust informing her of the Noble
Lord’s enquiry. She will reply shortly and a copy of the letter will be placed in
the Library.</p>
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