Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order is a medical order indicating that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should not be performed if a patient's heart stops beating or they stop breathing. DNR orders respect patient autonomy for those who don't want aggressive life-sustaining measures, often due to terminal illness, poor quality of life, or personal values. The order must be written by a physician based on patient wishes (or healthcare agent's decision if patient is incapacitated). DNR orders only apply to CPR - other treatments continue unless specified otherwise. There are different types: in-hospital DNR (applies during hospitalization), out-of-hospital DNR or POLST (honored by emergency responders), and DNR comfort care (specifies focus on comfort rather than life prolongation). The order should be clearly documented, communicated to all providers, and readily available. Patients can revoke DNR orders at any time. DNR decisions should involve discussion with providers, family, and healthcare agents.