Module 8: Death

Welcome to Module 8

The next chapter addresses the topic of the last stages of life.  This is approached in two parts by firstly examining the criteria used in determining death. This is explored from the time historically when death was determined by reference to the cardiac & respiratory indicators to the transition where the absence of neurological activity was added to that criteria.   The second part of the chapter examines the implications for revising the criteria for the determination of death & organ donation.  As our understanding of neurology advances so do the ethical challenges grow as to balance the rights of the dying patient and the urgent need of the recipient.

Module Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

1. Define le coma depasse

2. List the Harvard criteria

3. Explain and apply the dead donor rule

4. Compare and contrast the whole-brain and higher brain (neocortical) formulations of brain death 

(CLO = Course Learning Outcome)

To Do

Please read/watch all of the module learning materials (readings, presentations, videos, etc.) and complete all assignments/assessments listed below. If you have questions, please contact the course instructor or ask in the Questions About This Course forum.

  1. Read the required pages
  2. Watch the video below and as you do the presenter suggests a possible solution to the shortage of organ parts for those waiting for a transplant
  3. Quiz 3 will be active from 4/19 & due on 4/21.  (The third quiz will be based on Chapters 10-11.  The review notes for Chapters 10 & 11 are posted below.  As this is an open-book quiz use the review material to guide you to know where to concentrate on in the chapter when you are taking the quiz.)

Readings and Presentations:

  • Read Ch. 13: 295-307 and as you do you will notice that the chapter explores two main issues.  The writer explores how the determination of death has evolved through history to the present to include criteria influenced by the advancement of medical technology.  The second issue related to this is that of organ donation and how its regulations has been managed so as to ensure the needs of donors are protected but the urgency of the recipients are addressed.

Video:

Replacing Body Parts Links to an external site.

Assignments/Assessments:

QC Medical Ethics Review Notes Chapter 10.docx Download QC Medical Ethics Review Notes Chapter 10.docx

QC Medical Ethics Review Notes Chapter 11.docx Download QC Medical Ethics Review Notes Chapter 11.docx

Complete Quiz 3 by 4/21

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