Palliative medicine
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Palliative medicine · Sep 2014
Resuscitation decisions for patients dying in the community: a qualitative interview study of general practitioner perspectives.
Most patients dying at home do not have a Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation decision and may have inappropriate attempts at resuscitation made when they die. ⋯ Resuscitation decisions are important in facilitating a peaceful death, but can be difficult for general practitioners to discuss. General practitioners might benefit from clearer guidance on when an attempt at resuscitation is unlikely to be successful, especially in non-malignant disease. Team discussions including Gold Standards Framework meetings can give confidence and support in making difficult end-of-life decisions.