what is a dnr order

A Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) order is a medical order written by a doctor that instructs healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patients breathing stops or if their heart stops beating. A DNR order is a legal document that is signed by the patient and their provider, and it tells emergency responders and other healthcare providers not to perform CPR if the patient's heart stops or they stop breathing. A DNR order does not mean "do not treat," but rather it means only that CPR will not be attempted. Other treatments that may prolong life can still be provided. Ideally, a DNR order is created before an emergency occurs, and it allows the patient to choose whether or not they want CPR in an emergency. A DNR order may be part of a hospice care plan, and the focus of hospice care is not to prolong life, but to treat symptoms such as pain or shortness of breath and to maintain comfort. DNR orders must be discussed by doctors with the patient or patient agents or patient's significant others, and unilateral DNR by medical professionals can only be used if the patient is in a vegetative state.