[Do-not-resuscitate orders--ethical and legal considerations]

The article is based on a structured literature review. Practicing DNR orders in Denmark has not yet been described and there are no national guidelines. Generally patients must give informed consent before do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders. Only 32% of competent patients are involved prior to the decision even though patients wish to talk about decisions regarding the end of life . In general doctors cannot predict patients' do-not-resuscitate preferences and doctors underestimate patients' self-estimated quality of life. Doctors rarely contact the Danish Living Will Registry. Patients with do-not-resuscitate orders may be subject to other therapeutic reductions. In conclusion, patient autonomy should also be respected in the case of do-not-resuscitate orders.