ReSPECT stands for Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment. It’s a national process set up by the Resuscitation Council UK and we’ve adopted it here at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust.

ReSPECT is a concise plan outlining what should happen if you need urgent care or treatment but are unable to communicate your wishes at that moment.

• ReSPECT plans are created through discussions between you and your healthcare professionals, focusing on your preferences for future care and treatment. These wishes are then recorded on a ReSPECT form.
• While anyone can use ReSPECT, it’s especially important for individuals with complex health needs, those approaching the end of their lives, or those whose health might suddenly or unexpectedly worsen.
• The ReSPECT form isn’t legally binding. Its purpose is to guide clinicians in making decisions, particularly in an emergency. It also helps them understand your treatment preferences – whether you wish to prolong life, focus mainly on comfort, or find a balance between the two.
• The ReSPECT process and form can be used alongside other documents, such as advance care plans  and an Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment (ADRT).
• The ReSPECT form details treatment options and your preferences, including a recommendation about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It’s important to remember that you can still be recommended for CPR even if you have a ReSPECT form in place.
• You hold onto your ReSPECT form, and it travels with you as you access healthcare services, whether you’re in hospital or in the community.
• The document can be updated as your clinical condition changes or your preferences about your care evolve.

Anyone can take part in the ReSPECT process, and it’s suitable for all ages, even if you’re currently well.

However, particular consideration should be given to:

• People with a long-term or life-limiting condition, or a disability, who might suddenly deteriorate or are at risk of a sudden event.
• Individuals who were previously well but have suddenly become unwell.
• People at foreseeable risk of death or sudden cardiac arrest.
• Those undergoing an intervention, such as major surgery.
• People who are nearing the end of their life.

The ReSPECT process is best started and the form completed when you’re relatively well. This way, if a crisis occurs, your preferences and agreed clinical recommendations are already known and recorded. However, some people may develop a sudden, severe illness, so ReSPECT discussions should happen as soon as reasonably possible in such cases.

Resuscitation Council UK: ReSPECT Resources

To find out more, please ask your clinician.