A DNR, or Do Not Resuscitate, is often completed if you’re terminally ill or nearing the end of your life. This form is required in some states and not others as part of your Advance Directives. A DNR allows you to choose specifically whether or not you want cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if an emergency happens. If you sign a DNR, your doctor will write a medical order to instruct your healthcare providers not to do CPR if you stop breathing or if your heart stops beating.