A client hospitalized for injuries from a motor vehicle crash is diagnosed with higher brain death.What findings support this client's diagnosis?
(Select all that apply)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Episodic coughing may be present in patients with brainstem death, but it does not confirm the diagnosis of higher brain death. The absence of cephalic reflexes, not breathing spontaneously, and an electroencephalogram showing no activity for 30 minutes are all findings that support the diagnosis of higher brain death. Inconsistent cardiac function on the heart monitor may also be present in patients with brainstem death but is not specific to higher brain death.

A Client Hospitalized for Injuries from a Motor Vehicle Crash