UDDA defines death as irreversible cessation of either circulatory and respiratory function or all brain functions including brainstem. Which option matches this definition?

• A. Irreversible cessation of all brain functions including brainstem
• B. Irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory function
• C. Irreversible cessation of all brain functions including brainstem OR irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory function
• D. Reversible cessation of brain activity

Answer: (C)

Death under UDDA can be determined by one of two mutually exclusive criteria: irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory function, or irreversible cessation of all brain functions, including the brainstem. The option that matches this definition is the one that lists both possibilities with OR between them: irreversibile cessation of all brain functions including brainstem OR irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory function. This exactly reflects the UDDA structure of “either … or …” for death determination.

The other options miss one of the two pathways or imply reversibility, which does not fit UDDA’s criteria.