Abstract
Consensus guidelines currently exist for the evaluation of pediatric patients with
suspected brain death. The guidelines include the requirement for two consistent examinations
separated by an observation period and a threshold of 60 mm Hg for PaCO2 during apnea testing. We present a patient who met all prerequisites to perform brain
death examination but had variability in examinations during apnea testing. We discuss
our strategy in managing these unexpected findings, including the importance of open
and ongoing communication with the family, and the implications for current guidelines
for the determination of brain death in pediatric patients.
Keywords
Pediatric - brain death - apnea
