Gifted Hands

Planning Ahead: The Importance of a DNAR Form

Home Care Tips & Advice

At Gifted Hands Home Care, we are committed to providing compassionate, person-centred care that respects the wishes and dignity of every client. One important part of planning for future care, which is often overlooked, is making decisions about emergency medical treatment—specifically, whether to have a DNAR (Do Not Attempt Resuscitation) form in place.

While it can be a sensitive and emotional topic, discussing and putting a DNAR form in place is an act of thoughtful planning and respect for personal choice. Here’s why we encourage our clients and their families to consider this important decision.

A DNAR form clearly states that you do not wish to receive CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Without such a form, healthcare professionals are legally obliged to attempt resuscitation.

Having a DNAR form in place ensures that your personal choice is honoured, giving you control over your care even if you are unable to speak for yourself during a medical emergency.

CPR can be physically invasive and, for frail or seriously ill individuals, it often has a low chance of success. In many cases, it can lead to broken ribs, internal injuries, and prolonged suffering.

By having a DNAR form in place, you are choosing a more peaceful, dignified, and comfortable passing, focusing on quality of life rather than invasive medical intervention.

In emergencies, family members are often forced to make quick, emotionally charged decisions about life-saving interventions. This can be overwhelming, and they may feel guilt or uncertainty later about whether they made the right choice.

A DNAR form removes this burden, as your wishes are already documented and legally recognised, allowing your loved ones to focus on providing emotional support rather than making rushed medical decisions.

Discussing a DNAR form encourages families, carers, and healthcare professionals to have honest conversations about end-of-life wishes, comfort, and quality of life.

At Gifted Hands Home Care, we believe these conversations are an essential part of providing compassionate care and ensuring that our clients feel heard, valued, and respected.

For home care staff and other healthcare professionals, a DNAR form provides clear guidance during medical emergencies. It ensures that everyone involved in your care understands your wishes, helping to avoid confusion or conflict during critical moments.

A DNAR form is just one part of a wider advance care plan. It works alongside other important documents, such as advance decisions (living wills) and respect forms, to ensure that your overall care preferences are followed.

At Gifted Hands Home Care, we encourage clients to consider all aspects of advance care planning so they can make informed decisions about their future care.

Deciding to have a DNAR form in place is a deeply personal choice, and at Gifted Hands Home Care, we respect and support every decision our clients make. Having this form is not about giving up hope; it is about choosing dignity, comfort, and respect for your wishes.

If you or your loved one are considering putting a DNAR form in place, we are here to guide you through the process, answer questions, and provide compassionate support.

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