"Do Not Resuscitate" orders in Queensland; Examining the need to obtain consent

Abstract

While advances in the understanding and treatment of many medical conditions have extended the lives of many patients, there may still come a time when it is appropriate to consider limiting the provision of certain lifesaving procedures, such as cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. In circumstances where it has been determined that such treatment would be futile, health care providers are able to institute a not for resuscitation order that communicates this decision to allmembers of the health care team. Currently, the law in Queensland requires that for those patients lacking capacity, consent should be obtained prior to insituting such an order. This article examines the content of this law, and explores the ethical principles that underpin the need to obtain consent; ultimately concluding that it does not support autonomous decision making.