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Legal Time of Death DBD — FRCA Final MCQ

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HardMedicolegal & EthicsLegal Time of Death DBDFRCA Final

The legal time of death in donation after brainstem death (DBD) in the UK is:

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Correct answer: E — When the first set of brainstem death tests is completed

In the UK, the legal time of death is recorded as the completion of the FIRST set of brainstem death tests. The second set confirms the findings. Ventilator support continues between tests and after confirmation of death (to maintain organs for donation if applicable). This is an important medicolegal point for documentation.

Reference: Academy of Medical Royal Colleges – 2008 – Code of Practice for Diagnosis of Death