Learning Objectives for Module 2: Neurological Determination of Death

Module 2: Neurological Determination of Death

Learning objectives:

Discuss normal CNS pathology and the pathophysiology leading to neurological death.
Describe physician standards required for declaration of neurological death.
Describe how to perform declaration of neurological death.
Discuss confounding factors that preclude a clinical diagnosis of neurological death.
Discuss the different acceptable ancillary tests for neurological determination of death.
Explain some common confusing exam findings in a patient who has been pronounced neurologically dead (spinal reflexes, ventilator auto-triggering, etc).

This curriculum has been developed by Canadian Blood Services in collaboration with Trillium Gift of Life Network, the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and many generous volunteers from the Canadian Critical Care community.

About the accreditation for this curriculum

This module was an Accredited Self-Assessment Program (Section 3) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada, and the Identification & Referral module was approved by Dalhousie University for up to 2 credit hours, while the NDD module was approved by Dalhousie University for up to 4.5 credit hours. The accreditation for this module expired in 2022.

Learners can submit certificates of completion for professional accreditation or continuing education units.