Such orders are reversible. A DNR can also dictate whether CPR is used in nursing homes or other facilities. Typically, a DNR order, signed by a physician, means if the patient's heart stops outside the hospital, emergency medical services aren't summoned. States are beginning to craft DNR orders to guide responding emergency medical workers. Usually the order must be signed by a doctor and the patient or his legal guardian.
Some states provide wallet cards or identification tags.
Food and fluids are as necessary for life as a beating heart. But advanced Alzheimer's disease, cancer or a severe stroke sometimes makes it impossible to eat and drink normally. Today patients can be kept alive for years with liquid nutrition and fluids delivered through a catheter inserted into a vein or tubes inserted into the intestines or stomach. Artificial feeding has a demonstrated benefit for some patients, including premature infants, severely depressed patients, those battling specific intestinal disorders and those recovering from trauma or a bone marrow transplant. Benefits are less clear for those with advanced cancer, strokes, Alzheimer's or Parkinson's diseases.