what is a dnr patient

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 means a person has decided not to have CPR attempted on them if their heart or breathing stops. 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 does not mean "do not treat." Rather, it means only that CPR will not be attempted. Other treatments that may prolong life can still be provided. A DNR order may be part of a hospice care plan, which focuses on treating symptoms such as pain or shortness of breath and maintaining comfort. DNR orders only apply to medical professionals, and without a DNR order, medical staff at the hospital will make every effort to restore the patients breathing and the normal rhythm of their heart.