$Unique_ID{BRK01632}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests}
$Title{What the Letters "DNR" Mean}
$Subject{do not resuscitate}
$Volume{P}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What the Letters "DNR" Mean


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QUESTION:  I hope you will tell me the truth about this, as I believe you
always do.  Could you tell me what the letters "DNR" mean on the chart of a
patient in a hospital.  It is very important for my own piece of mind.

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ANSWER:  I can't help but wonder how this question came to be, but you
certainly deserve a truthful answer.  Although different abbreviations are
used in different areas of this country, in general DNR means "Do not
resuscitate" and this order, which is only used for critically ill patients,
indicates that heroic methods needed to revive a patient whose heart has
stopped or who has stopped breathing, should not be utilized.  In general,
these orders are only written when the patient's condition is beyond hope and
only after consultation has been held with the patient, the patient's family,
and the physician.  The physician should explain fully, the implications of
this type of order and the wishes of the patient must be respected.  Many
hospitals have specific protocols concerning this order and continue to
provide the very best of intensive medical care to the patient, short of
actual resuscitation.  I suspect that if you need more information, your own
physician would be the best source.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
