DNR stands for Do not resuscitate.
What does DNR mean?
A medical order telling healthcare staff not to perform CPR if a patient's heart stops or they stop breathing.
DNR stands for Do Not Resuscitate. It is a formal medical order, written by a doctor and usually recorded in a patient's notes, stating that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should not be attempted if the patient's heart or breathing stops. It is not slang and it is not informal - it is a recognised clinical instruction.
A DNR order only applies to CPR. It does not mean a patient stops receiving other care. People with a DNR still receive full treatment for their condition, pain relief, comfort care, and all other appropriate medical support. The order simply reflects a decision - often made with the patient or their family - that attempting resuscitation would not be in the person's best interest.
DNR is closely related to other terms you may see, such as DNAR (Do Not Attempt Resuscitation) and DNACPR (Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). These mean essentially the same thing, with the wording chosen to make clear that resuscitation is being withheld, not that it would definitely have succeeded. The meaning of DNR is the same across all clinical settings.
When is DNR used?
A documented advance decision about resuscitation.
Frequently asked questions
What does DNR mean?
DNR means Do Not Resuscitate, a medical order not to perform CPR if the heart or breathing stops.
What does DNR stand for?
DNR stands for Do Not Resuscitate.
Is DNR slang?
No. DNR is a formal medical order written by a doctor, not slang or an informal term.
Does a DNR mean no other treatment?
No. A DNR applies only to CPR. Patients still receive full treatment, pain relief, and comfort care.
What is the difference between DNR and DNAR?
They mean essentially the same thing. DNAR (Do Not Attempt Resuscitation) wording stresses that resuscitation is being withheld, not that it would have succeeded.
Who decides a DNR?
A doctor makes the DNR order, usually after discussion with the patient or the family, and records it in the notes.