Do-Not-Resuscitate Order (DNR Order)

Overview

You may hear about a do-not-resuscitate order as you near the end of your life. Or, if you legally represent someone who's near death but cannot make medical decisions, you may be asked about one. We also call it a "DNR order." It's a legal document written by a doctor, but it's only created if you agree to it.

What does it do?

What does a DNR order do? Well, it tells healthcare workers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patient's heart stops or if they stop breathing. A DNR order only has instructions for CPR. It doesn't prevent healthcare workers from giving medicine, food or any other help.

Why choose it?

People usually choose a DNR order because they don't expect to get better and they don't want to have their life prolonged. But this can be a very hard decision to make. If you do decide that you want a DNR order and then later change your mind, you can have the DNR order removed. But you need to tell the doctor right away. The DNR order documents will need to be destroyed.

Conclusion

If you think a do-not-resuscitate order may be right for you, talk to your doctor for more information.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.