Palliative Care Resuscitation

The subject of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is huge and complex, with many issues influencing the final decision made. Using real-life case studies, this book looks at the main issues surrounding CPR in palliative care, bringing together the various complex strands in one easy-to-read resource. Palliative Care Resuscitation begins by examining the history of CPR and how the procedures used today were developed. CPR was initially intended for victims of sudden, unexpected cardio-pulmonary arrest, unfortunately it has been applied to less appropriate situations and is now the only medical procedure which is consented against. The media have portrayed CPR as being invariably successful and appropriate, this can lead to anger and confusion from patients and families. This book covers a range of issues, including: The resuscitation guidelines produced by the Resuscitation Council (UK), the British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing Expected success rates, and how the nurse-patient-doctor relationship can influence sometimes inappropriate CPR decisions How cultural and religious influences can also affect how a patient and their family may deal with CPR and other end of life decisions, and the legal and ethical issues pertaining to CPR and a good death. Palliative Care Resuscitation addresses the approach to CPR decisions in the community and ends with a suggested reading list for those wishing to research the subject further.  It will be essential reading for nurses on long stay wards, in care homes, hospices and in trauma care and A&E departments.Bass, Madeline is the author of 'Palliative Care Resuscitation ', published 2006 under ISBN 9780470019771 and ISBN 0470019778.