What Is a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order?

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a legal medical directive that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if a patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing. A DNR does not affect other treatments, such as pain management or comfort care—it only applies to resuscitation efforts.

Who should consider a DNR order?

• Individuals with terminal illnesses who want to avoid aggressive resuscitation efforts.
• Older adults or those with advanced health conditions who prefer a natural passing rather than medical intervention.
• Patients who prioritize comfort care over potentially invasive emergency measures.

How does a DNR order work?

• It must be signed by a doctor to be valid and included in medical records.
• It only applies to CPR—patients can still receive other life-sustaining treatments unless additional directives specify otherwise.
• Hospital vs. non-hospital settings: A DNR order in a hospital applies during treatment, while an out-of-hospital DNR (OOH-DNR) ensures paramedics, first responders, and ambulance personnel follow the directive at home, in assisted living, hospice care, or during emergency transport.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you or a loved one understand DNR orders, facilitate conversations with doctors, and ensure medical teams and caregivers have clear documentation of your preferences. If needed, an advocate can also help coordinate additional advance care planning, including living wills and medical power of attorney.

What to do next

Thinking about a DNR order or other advance care directives? Talk to a Solace advocate today for guidance on making informed healthcare decisions.