What is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order?

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is indeed a legal document indicating that no resuscitative efforts are to be made in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. This order reflects the wishes of the patient or their legal representative regarding end-of-life care, ensuring that if a patient experiences an event requiring resuscitation, such as a heart attack, no life-saving measures like CPR or advanced airway management will be attempted.

This document is crucial in medical settings, as it provides clear guidance to healthcare professionals on how to proceed in emergencies, aligning medical actions with the patient's values and preferences. It underscores the importance of informed consent and patient autonomy in healthcare decisions. Patients usually opt for a DNR order following comprehensive discussions with their healthcare providers, considering their health status, prognosis, and personal beliefs about life-sustaining treatments.