The Term 'Do Not Resuscitate' Should Be Laid to Rest

Amber Barnato calls for stopping use of the term "DNR." She rightly observes that it is often misinterpreted and misapplied. The consequence is that not only do patients get treatment they do not want but they also fail to get treatments that they do want.

Barnato summarizes: "Eliminating the term DNR and replacing it with 'no CPR' would make it more transparent to patients, families and providers what, exactly, is being withheld."

I agree that more precise language could reduce medical errors. While Barnato does not cite it, the TRIAD line of research in the Journal of Patient Safety serves is a compelling warning.