Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) request
Some people do not wish to be resuscitated if their heart or breathing suddenly stops. This is a personal choice. If this is your wish, it is important to set it out clearly and discuss it with your loved ones and healthcare professionals.
Do you have any questions about resuscitation, or are you unsure about your choice? If so, please discuss this with your GP. Together, you can work out what best suits your situation and wishes.
How can you set out your wishes?
There are various ways in which you can make it known that you do not wish to be resuscitated:
With a 'do not resuscitate' medallion
A ‘do not resuscitate’ medallion is an aluminium medallion stating that you do not wish to be resuscitated. You should wear it visibly around your neck, close to your heart. This ensures that emergency responders can spot the medallion quickly in an emergency.
A valid ‘do not resuscitate’ medallion bears the following:
- your full name;
- your date of birth;
- your signature;
- a clear passport-sized photograph;
- the declaration that you do not wish to be resuscitated.
One advantage of a medallion is that it is immediately visible. A written advance directive is often harder to find in an emergency.
You can apply for a ‘do not resuscitate’ medallion from, amongst others:
By means of a written declaration of intent
You can also set out your wishes in a written declaration of intent. This should include:
- your full name;
- your date and place of birth;
- your signature;
- the date on which you sign the declaration;
- your wish not to be resuscitated.
Your GP does not need to sign your advance healthcare directive. However, it is advisable to have your advance healthcare directive included in your medical records.
You should also tell your partner, family, housemates or other close friends and relatives about your wishes. Let them know that you have a living will and where you keep it. That way, they will know what your wishes are should an unexpected emergency arise.
With a ‘do not resuscitate’ tattoo
Some people choose to record their wish not to be resuscitated by means of a tattoo. This tattoo is often placed on the chest, over the heart.
A ‘do not resuscitate’ tattoo may be legally valid. Two conditions are important in this regard:
- The tattoo must have been done whilst you were of sound mind. This means that you were able to fully understand and appreciate the consequences of your choice.
- The text must be clear. It must be immediately clear to emergency services personnel that you do not wish to be resuscitated. The wording must not be open to different interpretations.
All three of these methods are legally valid. However, it is important that your wishes are clearly recognisable to care staff.
Why do people choose not to have resuscitation?
People may have various reasons for not wanting to be resuscitated. For example:
- due to illness or poor health;
- due to physical limitations;
- on the basis of religious or philosophical beliefs;
- due to personal preferences regarding quality of life;
- due to concerns about the consequences of resuscitation.
Every situation is different. That is why it is important to make a choice that suits your own wishes and circumstances.
Discuss your wishes with your GP
Some people worry about their quality of life after resuscitation. It is good to know that many people go on to enjoy a good quality of life after resuscitation.
Are you unsure about the pros and cons of resuscitation? Or would you like to know more about a ‘do not resuscitate’ medallion or a living will? If so, make an appointment with your GP. Together, you can discuss your questions and make a decision that suits you.
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