In India, the concept of “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) or “No Code” is not yet legally recognized. There is no specific legislation or legal provision that addresses DNR orders in the country.
However, the Medical Council of India (MCI) has issued guidelines on the “Do Not Attempt Resuscitation” (DNAR) order, which allows a patient or their family to refuse certain life-saving measures, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The guidelines state that a DNAR order should be documented in the medical record and that the patient’s wishes and best interests should be considered.
It is important to note that the guidelines issued by the MCI are not legally binding, and there is still some ambiguity regarding the legal status of DNAR orders in India. Therefore, it is recommended that patients and their families discuss their wishes regarding life-saving measures with their doctors and healthcare providers, and obtain legal advice if necessary.