Public Attitude towards Implementing DNAR and a Stance on Pediatric DNAR in Poland—A Prospective Survey Study

TL;DR

This study explores public attitudes toward DNAR in Poland, finding strong support for adult DNAR but less agreement on pediatric DNAR, especially without clear boundaries.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into public perception of DNAR and pediatric DNAR in Poland, highlighting the need for legislative boundaries.

Findings

82% of respondents support introducing DNAR in Poland, but 78% do not see it as a pressing issue.

Only 17% agree with pediatric DNAR unless specific conditions are met, such as parental and doctor agreement.

Public support for DNAR decreases significantly when it involves children without clear boundaries.

Abstract

Background: Do not attempt resuscitation (DNAR) is a document signed by a patient, which states that they do not want to be resuscitated. In Poland, DNAR is not regulated by law. We aimed to assess people’s perceptions on DNAR and pediatric DNAR in Poland. Methods: An anonymous survey was distributed via the snowball sampling method in different voivodeships in Poland in the years 2014–2018. The survey consisted of questions regarding knowledge and attitudes towards DNAR and pediatric DNAR. Results: A total of 1049 responses were collected. Moreover, 82% support introducing DNAR in Poland, but 78% believe that this is not a pressing issue. In a general question, 46% of respondents believe that DNAR should be obtainable only for adults. However, in a specific question, this number drops to 17%, with people agreeing for pediatric DNAR if it contains a boundary—23% agree if both parents agree to the solution and 45% if both parents and the child’s doctor agree to it. Conclusions: Even though someone supports DNAR, it does not mean that they support pediatric DNAR. People outside the medical community are more likely to be against DNAR. Giving a boundary in using pediatric DNAR may lead to the ease of its implementation in a legislative manner.

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