Describe the "do not resuscitate" (DNR) order.

A "do not resuscitate" (DNR) order is a legal document that indicates a patient's explicit wish not to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of a cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. This directive is crucial in respecting the autonomy of patients, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding their own end-of-life care. A DNR order is typically established through a conversation between the patient (or their healthcare proxy) and their healthcare provider, ensuring that the patient's preferences are documented and honored in critical situations.

In this context, the DNR serves to prevent any attempts at resuscitating a patient who has expressed that they do not wish for such interventions, especially when doing so may not align with their values or treatment goals. This legal backing ensures that healthcare providers adhere to the patient's wishes, reinforcing the importance of informed consent and patient rights in medical practice.