The cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brainstem, constitutes the widely accepted medical standard for determining death. This encompasses irreversible loss of consciousness, absence of brainstem reflexes (such as pupillary response, corneal reflex, gag reflex, and oculocephalic reflex), and the inability to breathe spontaneously. These criteria must be met even with maximal artificial support.
This unified medical standard provides clarity and consistency in end-of-life decision-making. Its widespread adoption facilitates organ donation, allowing for the possibility of life-saving transplants. The historical context reveals a shift from relying solely on cardiopulmonary criteria to acknowledge the significance of brain function in defining human life, reflecting advances in medical technology and understanding.
