Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to analyze and clarify the ambiguous concept of DNR, and to distinguish between DNR and euthanasia.
Result
The definable attributes of DNR were care for comfort, no further treatment and no CPR. The antecedents of DNR were the autonomy of patients and families feelings about death, the uselessness of treatment and the right to die with dignity. The process of the DNR decision should be documented and the antecedents of DNR also can be a basis for objective standards of DNR decision-making. The result of DNR was the acceptance of death by patients and families.