What is the significance of a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order in EMS?

• A. It requires immediate transport.
• B. It has no impact on EMS actions.
• C. It indicates that no resuscitation attempts should be made if the patient shows obvious signs of death.
• D. It only applies to hospital care.

Answer: (C)

A DNR in EMS is a legally recognized directive that tells responders not to perform CPR or other resuscitation efforts if the patient experiences cardiac or respiratory arrest. It reflects the patient’s wishes and, when valid, must be honored in the field.

Its significance lies in guiding actions during emergencies: with a valid DNR, you withhold resuscitation attempts, including CPR and advanced life-saving measures, and you focus on comfort care and appropriate care within policy. This protection exists because resuscitation can be invasive and futile for someone who has clearly expressed they do not want it.

DNR does not mean do nothing at all—the presence of a DNR does not automatically prevent other care or transport when appropriate and allowed by policy. It also does not mean the order only applies in hospitals; EMS personnel must recognize and respect valid DNR directives in the field. The concept behind the statement is that resuscitation should not be attempted if the patient is in a state where death is obvious and a valid DNR is in place, aligning care with the patient’s wishes.