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Nursing vocabulary · Emergencies and the Deteriorating Patient

DNR

Meaning in nursing, with examples

/ˌdiː ɛn ˈɑːr/abbreviationCommon term

In nursing, DNR means: Short for 'do not resuscitate': a medical decision, recorded in the notes, that CPR will not be attempted if the patient's heart or breathing stops.

In Turkish: DNR kararı, resüsitasyon yapılmaması kararı

How it is used

In the UK the usual term is DNACPR (do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation); DNAR and 'no code' are also heard. A DNR decision covers only CPR, and the patient still receives all other appropriate care. Who decides, how families are involved and how it is recorded depend on each country's law and policies.

Example sentences

  1. She has a DNR in place, but she's still for antibiotics and IV fluids.

  2. Please check that the DNR form is at the front of his notes after the family meeting.

Common collocations

  • DNR order
  • DNR form
  • DNR status
  • have a DNR in place
  • CPRShort for cardiopulmonary resuscitation: chest compressions, often with rescue breaths, given to someone whose heart has stopped, to keep blood and oxygen moving.
  • code blueA hospital emergency call meaning that a patient's heart or breathing has stopped and the resuscitation team must come at once.
  • palliative careCare that aims to relieve pain and other symptoms and support quality of life for people with a serious illness that cannot be cured, together with support for their families.
  • informed consentA patient's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after they have been told and have understood what it involves, its risks, benefits and alternatives.

More terms: Emergencies and the Deteriorating Patient

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.