What is a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order?

A do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order is an advanced healthcare directive that instructs healthcare staff not to perform CPR or other medical interventions to revive a patient if they suffer from cardiac or respiratory arrest. The DNR order is designed to give the patient the right to decide what medical treatments they want to receive, and also prevents medical staff from carrying out treatments that the patient has previously refused. In North Carolina, a person can decide if a DNR is appropriate with the help of their healthcare provider. The patient needs to be informed about the decision and needs to be able to make an informed decision about the matter. The patient’s healthcare provider will help them understand the risks and benefits of the DNR order, as well as the consequences of it. Once the decision has been made, the patient’s healthcare provider should create a written order stating their DNR request. If the patient has a health care power of attorney, they can also sign the DNR order. A DNR order is a legal instruction and it will be followed in North Carolina. It is important that those who have a DNR order carry a copy of the order with them at all times in the event of an emergency.

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