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apnea test
This test is used by physicians in assisting the determination of brain death.  The respiratory centers of the brainstem are one of the most primitive centers, and one of the last to go when it comes to brain death.  In testing for brain death, the patient is taken off the ventilator, with oxygen in the endotracheal tube (tube supplying air to the lungs), and the physician watches for any respiratory efforts.

 

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