In Canada, a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order, also known as a No CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) order, is a medical directive that instructs healthcare providers not to attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if a person’s heart stops or they stop breathing.
Tips & Links
A DNR order is typically considered when a person has a serious, life-limiting illness, or has stated that they do not want life-saving measures. Choosing a DNR or No CPR order is an important decision and should be talked about with your physician, nurse practitioner, and those closest to you.
Learn More
- Use the DNR discussion tools to help you work through your decision developed by Advance Care Planning Canada.
- Complete the DNR or No CPR form with your physician, when or if it is right for you.
- Use the Do Not Resuscitate or No CPR order (DNR) forms available in many languages provided by Healthlink BC.
- Know that a (DNR) ensures that your end-of-life preferences are respected, allowing you to avoid unwanted medical interventions.
- A DNR helps to provide clear instructions to health care professionals, reducing confusion and ensuring appropriate care during a medical emergency.
- Consider having a DNR in place to help alleviate the stress and uncertainty for your family and care partners, allowing them to focus on supporting you rather than making difficult decisions in a crisis.
Things You Can Do
- In BC, for a No CPR order to be effective, you might also consider wearing a MedicAlert bracelet or necklet.
- Place the signed and dated copy of your DNR on the front or side of the fridge for first responders.
- Know that you can cancel a No CPR order by speaking to your physician or nurse practitioner, tearing up the signed No CPR form, stopping wearing your MedicAlert No CPR bracelet or necklet, and informing MedicAlert of the update as soon as possible.
- Ensure your temporary substitute decision-maker (TSDM) or substitute decision-maker (SDM) is aware of the DNR or No CPR decision, the location of the form, and review it with them every year to ensure your decisions are followed.
- Learn how to use emergency services in your community.
- Make sure that your DNR is noted on your health profile.
Mywell Health helps you organize your decision documents in one place such as a DNR or MOST document. Consider filing both digital and print copies under My-End of Life Decisions. Post copies on the front or side of your fridge for first responders.