[Do not resuscitate orders in the intensive care setting]

Rev Med Brux. 2010 May-Jun;31(3):193-6.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Even if Belgium (2002), The Netherlands (2002) and Luxemburg (2009) are the first three countries in the world to have legalized active euthanasia, there still is not a law on the do not resuscitate concept (NTBR or DNR). Nevertheless, numerous royal decrees and some consensus as well as advice given by the Belgian Medical Council, hold as jurisprudence. These rules remain amenable to change so as to suite the daily practice in intensive care units. This article describes the actual Belgian legal environment surrounding the intensive care specialist when he has to take such decisions.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Belgium
  • Humans
  • Intensive Care Units*
  • Resuscitation Orders / legislation & jurisprudence*