What is a ‘Do-Not-Resuscitate’ (DNR) Order?

Some patients and their families find themselves wanting to talk with their doctors about ensuring that a “Do-Not-Resuscitate” or DNR order is written in their charts. There are even those who consider buying bracelets which express this sentiment, stating their wishes clearly to anyone who might read the engaved words. What all of this entails is a patient stating in advance whether he or she wantss to or doesn’t want resuscitation following a cardiac arrest or life-threatening arrhythmia.

Some patients and their families find themselves wanting to talk with their doctors about ensuring that a “Do-Not-Resuscitate” or DNR order is written in their charts. There are even those who consider buying bracelets which express this sentiment, stating their wishes clearly to anyone who might read the engaved words. What all of this entails is a patient stating in advance whether he or she wantss to or doesn’t want resuscitation following a cardiac arrest or life-threatening arrhythmia. Many patients fear losing control in such a situation, that with resuscitation they may find themselves being kept alive in a physical state with a lessened quality of life and no way out.

Like many other medical decisions, deciding whether or not to resuscitate a patient who suffers a cardiopulmonary arrest involves a careful consideration of the potential likelihood for clinical benefit, the patient’s preferences regarding intervention, and the outcome that’s likely to result. Decisions to forego cardiac resuscitation are often difficult because of real or perceived differences in these considerations. Patients are not always aware that resuscitation does not always have to result in a reduced quality of life or being unable to do anything about the situation later on. As a result, it is useful for every patient considering a “Do-Not-Resuscitate” or DNR order to talk about their desires and fears with their family members and physician. (See Advance Care Planning .)

It also is of vital importance to prepare a written document, either a Living Will or other Advance Directive , which clearly reflects their philosophy and goals for possible future medical interventions. Such documents can prevent unwanted interventions and ensure that the patient’s wishes are upheld.