Adult Medical Surgical ATI Related

Review Adult Medical Surgical ATI related questions and content

A 20-year-old patient with a massive head injury is on life support, including a ventilator to maintain respirations. What three criteria for brain death are necessary to discontinue life support?

  • A. Irreversible cessation of all brain functions.
  • B. Absence of brainstem reflexes.
  • C. No spontaneous respirations.
  • D. Fear of pain
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Brain death is confirmed when there is irreversible cessation of all brain functions, absence of brainstem reflexes, and no spontaneous respirations, meeting legal and medical criteria for death.