The surgeon was about to start the operation but suddenly noticed something on the patient’s body and categorically refused to proceed

The operating room was filled with the usual, almost routine bustle. Nurses laid out instruments on sterile tables, the surgeon checked the lighting of the lamps and gave instructions to the assistants. Through the half-open door came the steady hum of the machines.

— The patient was brought in unconscious — the anesthesiologist said quietly. — He was found on the street. His blood pressure is unstable, but we’re ready to start.
— The main thing is to start in time — the surgeon replied, fastening his sterile gown. — If everything goes according to plan, we’ll save him.

The surgeons and assistants went to the sinks. The movements were practiced and precise: hand washing, gloves, masks. The nurses were already covering the patient with the blue surgical drape, connecting sensors, and adjusting the monitors. A faint scent of antiseptic lingered in the air. Everything was going exactly as it had hundreds of times before.

The surgeon approached the table, picked up an instrument… and suddenly froze. His gaze lingered on an exposed patch of the patient’s skin. His brow furrowed. Slowly, he set the instrument down.

— The operation is canceled — he said firmly.

The operating room fell silent.

— What do you mean, canceled?! — the nurse did not hide her indignation. — If we don’t do anything now, we won’t be able to save him!

— I can’t take that risk — the surgeon replied. — There’s a protocol for such cases.

He removed his gloves and left without another word.

On the skin, clearly and in black ink, were the words:

DO NOT RESUSCITATE

In some situations, such inscriptions can be regarded as a legally binding expression of the patient’s will — a prohibition on performing any surgical intervention.

Doctors are obliged to comply, even if they understand that it deprives the person of any chance of survival.

Many people think it’s funny to get a “joke” or symbolic tattoo. But in a critical moment, when every minute counts, it can be the reason you die.

Think carefully before decorating your body with words whose meaning you do not fully understand.