A DNR allows a person to refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) mouth-to-mouth
resuscitation, external chest compression, electric shock, intubation, or injection of medication into your heart or open chest - if the person's heartbeat or breathing stops.
A DNR must be a written order prepared by a doctor and patient consent witnessed by two individuals. A DNR is done in a health care facility (hospital, nursing home, or a mental hygiene facility licensed by New York State).
A non-hospital DNR is valid in NYS when the patient fills out form DOH- 3474 it is and signed by doctor. In such cases, the patient can wear a metal bracelet that includes a caduceus and the words "DO NOT Resuscitate." A Doctor will only sign a DNR when someone is in a terminal state.