Definition

Do Not Resuscitate—a medical order stating that if your heart stops, healthcare workers should let nature take its course rather than breaking out the defibrillator and rib-cracking chest compressions. The ultimate 'please just let me go peacefully' request.

Example Usage

The patient signed a DNR after watching his roommate receive CPR and deciding that was not how he wanted to spend his final moments.

Origin

Medical directive terminology from 1970s patient rights movement

Fun Fact

DNR orders only apply to CPR—you still get all other treatments unless you also have a DNI (Do Not Intubate) or broader advance directive.

Source: Medical ethics and end-of-life care terminology

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