Can I sign a DNR order as a Muslim?
It depends on the situation. Many scholars allow a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order when trusted doctors say that CPR would not help or would only prolong the process of dying. It is not allowed out of despair, convenience or to hasten death. Talk openly with your doctors, your family and a trusted imam before deciding.
What a DNR means
A DNR order (called DNACPR in the UK) is a medical instruction not to attempt CPR, meaning chest compressions and shocks to the heart, if your heart or breathing stops. It does not mean "stop all care". Pain relief, comfort, nursing, food and drink and other treatments usually continue.
The Islamic principles
- Life is sacred. Allah says that whoever saves a life is as if they saved all of humanity (Quran 5:32), so protecting life is a high priority.
- Death comes at its time. No person dies except as Allah has decreed.
- Treatment is encouraged, but not always required. The Prophet ﷺ told people to seek medical treatment (Sunan Abi Dawud 3855). Many scholars say that treatment becomes optional when there is no real hope that it will help, or when it only prolongs suffering.
When scholars generally allow a DNR
Many contemporary scholars allow a DNR when:
- The illness is serious and irreversible, and qualified, trustworthy doctors agree that CPR would be futile or harmful.
- The decision is made with the patient's consent or the family's, after a full explanation.
- Comfort and other care continue.
Scholars differ on some details, such as how certain the doctors must be, so ask an imam about your case. The related question of life support is covered in Can I turn off life support for a dying relative as a Muslim?
When it is not allowed
- When CPR would likely help and the person could recover.
- Because of age, disability or cost alone, or because family feel pressured.
- As a way of ending life on purpose.
Deliberately ending life is a separate matter. See Is assisted dying allowed in Islam?
Talking to the medical team
- Ask what CPR involves and how likely it is to work in your condition, including the risks, such as broken ribs.
- Ask what care will continue and what quality of life you could expect afterwards.
- Ask for a second opinion if you are unsure.
- Ask that your faith be noted on your chart, including any wishes for end-of-life care, such as saying the shahada and an early burial.
- Ask whether the order can be reviewed later if things change.
It is wise to bring the hospital chaplain or an imam into the conversation, together with your family. This is a decision to make together, never alone. If thoughts of death worry you, see How do I deal with fear of death as a Muslim?
- A DNR stops CPR only, not all care.
- Many scholars allow it when doctors say CPR is futile or only prolongs dying.
- It is not allowed out of hopelessness, pressure or to hasten death.
- Decide with your doctors, family and an imam, and ask for a review if things change.
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