Which statement about a DNR order is correct?

• A. A legal document indicating that a patient does not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac arrest.
• B. A schedule of ventilator settings.
• C. An order to withhold all forms of pain relief.
• D. A consent form for organ donation.

Answer: (A)

DNR orders specify resuscitation preferences when the heart stops. This is a legal directive that indicates a patient does not want CPR to be attempted if cardiac arrest occurs. It is specifically about whether to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, not about ventilator settings, pain relief, or organ donation. A DNR does not automatically withhold all forms of comfort care or other treatments unless there is another directive stating otherwise, and organ donation is handled by separate consents.