The author discusses do-not-resusciate (DNR) orders & argues that such orders should not be considered physician-assisted suicide. He argues that they are not because: 1) the desire to limit medical attempts to prolong life has not been traditionally viewed as suicidal ideation; 2) there must be evidence that death was intended & resulted from a patient-initiated action or inaction, & 3) the assisting physician must share the patient’s intent to die & to act directly to bring it about. (33 refs)