Full formMedical & Health
DNRstands forDo Not Resuscitate
Full Form of DNR
What is DNR?
DNR stands for 'Do Not Resuscitate', a medical order that instructs healthcare providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing. In India, the use of DNR orders is governed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Supreme Court guidelines, which recognize the right to die with dignity and advance medical directives. DNR orders are typically established after careful discussion between the patient (or their family, if the patient is incapacitated) and the treating doctor, and are documented in the patient’s medical file. They are most commonly used in intensive care units (ICUs), palliative care settings, and for terminally ill patients where resuscitation would offer no meaningful benefit. The legal and ethical framework around DNR in India evolved significantly after the 2018 landmark judgment in Common Cause vs. Union of India, which recognized passive euthanasia and living wills. For medical students and healthcare professionals, understanding DNR is crucial for clearing NEET PG, AIIMS, and other competitive exams, as questions often test knowledge of patient autonomy, ethical decision-making, and end-of-life care protocols in the Indian context.
DNR का फुल फॉर्म
पुनर्जीवित न करें
Example
The elderly patient’s son presented a valid living will to the hospital administration, requesting a DNR order to avoid prolonged suffering from the terminal illness.
DNR — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of DNR?
DNR stands for Do Not Resuscitate, a medical order that prevents healthcare providers from performing CPR if a patient’s heart or breathing stops.
Is DNR legally valid in India?
Yes, DNR orders are legally valid in India as per the Supreme Court’s 2018 judgment on passive euthanasia and advance directives, provided they are made with proper documentation and consent.
How is a DNR order implemented in Indian hospitals?
A DNR order must be signed by the attending physician and the patient or family, clearly documented in the medical record, and communicated to all staff involved in the patient’s care.