Abstract
Surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses are frequently asked to operate on patients with an existing Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order, resulting in confusion about the proper approach. We discuss the origins of decisions not to attempt resuscitation, the special circumstances surrounding the need for resuscitation intraoperatively, and reasons to suspend, or not suspend, the DNR order during the perioperative period. DNR should be part of a comprehensive discussion of a patient and family's goals of care. A clear understanding of those goals will lead the care team to a better understand the role of perioperative resuscitation for that individual patient.