Final answer:
Conditions that must be ruled out before diagnosing brain death include drug intoxication, hypothermia, electrolyte disturbances, and medications that can mask neurological function. Common tests for brain death include neurological examination, apnea test, brain imaging, and EEG.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prior to a diagnosis of brain death, certain conditions must be ruled out. These include:
- Drug intoxication or poisoning
- Hypothermia
- Severe electrolyte or metabolic disturbances
- Paralytics or sedatives that could mask neurological function
Common tests performed to diagnose brain death include:
- Neurological examination to assess brain function
- Apnea test to determine if the patient can breathe without assistance
- Brain imaging such as CT scan or MRI to assess brain structure and blood flow
- EEG (electroencephalogram) to measure brain activity