Determination of Death Procedure

Question 1

Can Presume if:

Answer 1

Pt has a valid DNR

Pt is decomposing, decapitated, hemicorporectomy(torso transaction), or incineration

Question 2

Dependent Lividity and Rigor Mortis Require the following:

As well as

Injuries incompatible with life: massive crush injury, complete exsanguination, severe displacement of brain matter

Answer 2

• Reposition airway and look, listen, feel for at least -30 seconds or auscultation for absence of heart sounds
• Examine and Determine both pupils are non-reactive
• Cardiac Monitor for at least 30 seconds to determine systole

Question 3

Non-traumatic Cardiac Arrest

Answer 3

1. Pt must be 18
2. Pt is in cardiac arrest at time of ALS arrival
3. ACLS has been performed for 20 minutes
4. No ROSC
5. Pt is asystolic in at least 2 leads
6. No suspicion of: drugs/toxin OD, hypothermia, active internal bleeding, preceding trauma
7. All providers agree

Call DMO