Death is defined by the cessation of all biological functions and is typically considered a suboptimal outcome. Patients often state their preference for ongoing life as opposed to death.
Symptoms
It can be very challenging to elicit symptoms in a patient who has suffered from death. Collateral history is very useful here.
Signs
Vital signs can be very telling in a patient with death: temperature is room temperature or less, blood pressure is 0, heart rate is 0, respiratory rate is 0, and oxygen saturation is 0%. Physical exam can be very challenging due to the patient's lack of participation.[1]
Diagnosis
Imaging can help support the diagnosis of death. Pan-scanning provides the best use of resources.[2]
Treatment
However, just because a patient has died doesn't mean they are no longer a candidate for treatment. One of the most popular treatments after death is chemotherapy.[3] For more information, see Postmortem Chemotherapy.
Prevention
Tammyflu and a multivitamin.[4][5]
Future Directions
Unfortunately, there have been no breakthroughs with this condition and the global death rate remains constant at 100%.[6]
References
- ↑ AMA Holds Funeral Service for Physical Exam
- ↑ Ever Wonder How Radiologists Know What Studies to Recommend?
- ↑ FDA Approves Groundbreaking Postmortem Chemotherapy Protocol
- ↑ New Study Shows Tammyflu Pills Provide Eternal Life
- ↑ New Multivitamin Cures Cancer, Heart Disease, Famine, Evil
- ↑ World Death Rate Holding Steady At 100 Percent
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