"Declared Clinically Dead"

[chimp3]

This phrase always amuses me when reading accounts of "near death experiences". The subject is always declared clinically dead and yet is receiving resuscitation. That is not what happens. During a CPR/ defibrillation procedure a series of rescue breathing/ chest compressions , checking the heart rhythm to see if defibrillation is needed, and drugs are given.  This can go on for quite awhile. Then when the Doctor says "Stop!" that's it. The time is noted and now the patient is declared dead. The death certificate for example will note "Time of death 14:22" . At no time before the resuscitation is the person declared dead. If you don't believe it , get a degree in medicine or nursing and see for yourself.

I'm certainly not an expert in biology, but from a quick search, clinical death means that there is no pulse, no respiratory movement, and no corneal reflex.  It would seem that if you are responsibly doing CPR with artificial ventilation required, that two of the three requirements should be met; with the third following shortly after (apart from external resuscitation efforts)....correct?

It doesn't seem all that inappropriate to label clinical death, as a "near death experience" (if there brain is no longer receiving oxygen and functioning).  Also, I would hope, that the patient would be dead, prior to, a responsible doctor declaring them dead (Note again however... I'm not claiming to be an expert here). But then again, I see the paperwork (and declaration of death) as being descriptive, not prescriptive.  I can understand that from a procedural standpoint; of not treating a patient as dead, until a qualified medical personnel has examined them and determined that they are dead (to the point that resuscitation is no longer viable).

If you are making the distinction that clinical death, does not equal biological death...ok  However if you are saying that clinical death does not happen before the declaration of death (or resuscitation efforts) then I would ask you to please clarify.  I also have an issue with death being dependent on a doctor saying "Stop!", making any declarations, or the paperwork.  I don't think this is necessary (concerning actual death, not from a procedural standpoint).  I don't have a degree in medicine or nursing; and I'm open to correction with an explanation from an expert.

No! If you initiate CPR you do not assume anyone is dead. That is why it is called resuscitation. You are trying to save a life! As in "Rescue'! As in "Save"! Not as in "Resurrect"! Not as in "Return from the Underworld". More like "Hellp! He is not breathing! Save him!"

Have not any of you NDE promoting theotards ever taken a basic CPR class? It does not require a degree. Many fire stations offer CPR free to the public.