Ep 13. D.N.R.

In the Becker season 6 episode 13 titled D.N.R., we see Becker (played by Ted Danson) struggling with the realization that one of his patients, Mrs. Gertrude Steinkellner (played by Betty Garrett), has elected to sign a 'Do Not Resuscitate' (D.N.R.) order. Mrs. Steinkellner has been Becker's patient since the beginning of the show and over the years, the two have developed a deep relationship, with Becker almost seeing her as family. However, when he finds out about her decision, he is flooded with emotions ranging from disbelief to anger.

The issue of D.N.R. orders has always been a thorny subject for Becker, who has been steadfast in his belief that everything possible should be done to keep his patients alive, no matter the circumstances. However, Mrs. Steinkellner's decision forces him to confront his beliefs head-on and come to terms with the fact that he may not be able to change her mind.

As the episode progresses, Becker tries everything in his power to convince Mrs. Steinkellner to change her mind. He uses logic, evidence, and even appeals to their emotional bond, but nothing seems to work. Meanwhile, his colleagues Jake (played by Alex Désert), Chris (played by Nancy Travis), and Linda (played by Shawnee Smith) watch on with concern, not knowing quite what to do or say to help their friend.

The situation becomes even more complex when Becker discovers that Mrs. Steinkellner's daughter, who has been estranged from her for years, suddenly reappears and starts to influence her mother's decision. The daughter, who is played by guest star Carol Lawrence, has a completely different view of D.N.R. orders, stating that her mother has lived a long and fulfilled life and that it's time for her to let go.

As the tension builds, the episode takes a dramatic turn when Mrs. Steinkellner suddenly takes a turn for the worse and is rushed to the hospital. The doctors tell Becker that they need to start resuscitation procedures, but he is torn between his feelings for his patient and his belief that this goes against her wishes. Meanwhile, the daughter is nowhere to be found, leaving Becker and Mrs. Steinkellner's fate in a precarious position.

The final scene is an emotional one, with Becker grappling with the reality that he may lose his beloved patient. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving us to wonder what will happen next and how Becker will handle the aftermath of this gut-wrenching situation.

Overall, D.N.R. is a powerful episode that tackles the difficult subject of end-of-life care and the choices patients have the right to make about their own bodies. It's a raw, emotional, and thought-provoking episode that will leave viewers thinking long after the credits have rolled.