CLINICAL-BRAINSTEM REFLEXES IN BRAIN DEATH TESTING

SUMMARY

Absence of brainstem function on exam, as indicated by following:
1. Loss of spontaneous eye movements
2. Mid-position of the eyes
3. Lack of oculocephalic (doll's eyes) and oculovestibular (caloric) responses
4. Presence of dilated or mid-position fixed pupils (not smaller than 3 mm)
5. Paralysis of bulbar musculature (no facial movement or gag, cough, corneal, or sucking reflexes)
6. Absence of motor and autonomic responses to noxious stimuli
7. Absence of spontaneous respiratory movements

Reference(s)

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