A 'do not resuscitate' decision was made without asking us
Doctors must involve you before putting a DNACPR (do not attempt CPR) decision on your record, unless discussing it would cause you physical or psychological harm. If you lack capacity, they should consult your family.
The interactive version is available in 6 languages and Easy Read. It includes a ready-made letter you can fill in.
Your rights
- To be told about and involved in a DNACPR decision, in most cases.
- For family or carers to be consulted if the person lacks capacity.
- To ask for a second opinion.
- A DNACPR decision is only about CPR. It must not reduce any other care or treatment.
What to do next
- Ask to see the DNACPR form and the reasons recorded on it.
- Ask for a meeting with the senior doctor responsible.
- Ask for a second opinion if you disagree.
- If you were wrongly left out, make a complaint. This is a human rights issue.
Say this
“We weren't consulted about this DNACPR decision. Please explain the reasons, and arrange a discussion and a second opinion.”
The law behind it (England)
- R (Tracey) v Cambridge University Hospitals [2014] EWCA Civ 822duty to involve the patient
- Human Rights Act 1998Article 8: private life
- Mental Capacity Act 2005best interests consultation
Elsewhere in the UK
- Scotland
- In Scotland, the same human rights principles apply, along with the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000.
- Wales
- In Wales, the same principles apply, with an all-Wales DNACPR policy.
- Northern Ireland
- In Northern Ireland, the same human rights principles apply.
Easy Read
What you need to know
- DNACPR means doctors will not try to restart the heart if it stops.
- In most cases, doctors must talk to you about this first.
- If you cannot decide, they should talk to your family.
- It does not change any other care.
What you can do
- Use our DNACPR letter.
- Ask for a second opinion.
Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.