Communication Skills and Ethics Flashcards
1
Q
What is brain stem death?
A
Severe and irreversible damage to the brain stem - control breathing and basic functions for life
2
Q
How is brain stem death confirmed?
A
Examination by consultant and another senior doctor
2 Separate occasions - test brainstem functions to see if chance of recovery
If no response - patient is dead
3
Q
Brain stem death and pain?
A
Body is unable to feel pain when the brainstem died
4
Q
What should happen after a diagnosis of brainstem death has been made?
A
- Inform the family
- Allow time to say goodbye and have any religious/spiritual input they would like
- Discuss r.e. organ transplant
