The purpose of this website is to help patients, families, and caretakers learn about end-of-life care options so they can reach an informed decision about their care. 

A DNR or Do-Not-Resuscitate Order is a medical document outlining what a person wants or does not want to happen to them in the event their heart stops and/or they are unable to make medical decisions.

Depending on the state, a DNR generally only covers resuscitation efforts such as

• CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) which involves pushing on the chest

• Defibrillation which is an electric shock meant to reset the heart

• Medicines to help restart the heart

• Intubation and Ventilation to breathe through a tube in the throat

Different states have different forms and names for a DNR.  Some states also have other sections for a patient's wishes on the same form that go beyond resuscitation, such as allowed medications.