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.
- Use the DNR discussion tools developed by Advance Care Planning Canada to help you work through your decision.
- Complete the DNR or No CPR form with your physician, when or if it is right for you.
- See that Healthlink BC has made DNR forms available in many languages.
- Post the signed and dated copy on your fridge (a place where first responders look for it) and update it every year.
- 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.
- Make sure a DNR is noted on your health profile and a photocopy is in your planner.
- Your Mywell Health planner has been designed to organize all your end-of-life decision documents in one place – keep digital and print copies in the section My End-of-Life Decisions.
Tools – Handouts & Videos
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