Defining Death Flashcards
What is thanatology?
The study of death, dying, bereavement
What was the conventional clinical criterion for defining death historically?
The absence of vital signs such as heartbeat and breathing
Why is the conventional clinical criterion for defining death now considered inadequate?
Medical technology can artificially maintain cardiopulmonary functioning even if integrated brain functioning is permanently lost
What was the “Brain Death” concept introduced by the Harvard Criteria in 1968?
It defined death based on he irreversible loss of a brain functions, including the brain stem
What are the four criteria for brain death according to the Harvard Criteria
- Lack of receptivity and response to external stimuli
- Absence of spontaneous muscular movement and breathing
3.Absence of observable reflexes, including brain and spinal reflexes - Absence of brain activity as indicated by a flat EEG
What is the Uniform Determination of Death Act (1981)?
A model law providing a comprehensive basis for determining death, including irreversible cessation of circulatory, respiratory, and all brain functions
What are the two criteria for determining death according to the Uniform Determination of Death Act?
1.irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory functions
2. Irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brain stem
Who is Robert Veatch and how does he define death?
A professor emeritus of medical ethics who defines death as the irreversible loss of those characteristics that are essentially significant to a living entity
What historical fear was associated with being mistakenly pronounced dead?
The fear of being buried alive, known as taphophobia
What is one of the implications of defining death related to organ donation?
The use of brain-dead patients as organ donors, raising concerns about how we define death and the ethical treatment of potential organ donors
What are some factors that influence the decision to donate organs?
Relational ties, religious beliefs, cultural beliefs, family influence, body integrity, interaction with healthcare, lack of knowledge, and the gift-to-society belief.
What is transplant tourism?
Patients traveling across borders to receive organ transplants, often involving illegal or unethical practices
What are the risks associated with translate tourism and illegal organ trade?
Post-operative complications, low survival rates, and ethical concerns due to the exploitation of impoverished donors
