Brain death

Brain death, often referred to as brain stem death, occurs when an individual on artificial life support has lost all brain function. This indicates that they will not regain consciousness or be able to breathe independently. Legally, a person who is brain dead is considered deceased. There is no possibility of recovery, as their body cannot function without the aid of life support. When someone is declared brain dead, the damage is permanent, and according to UK legislation, this person is regarded as having died. It can be difficult to understand the concept of brain death, especially since the life support machine continues to keep their heart beating and their chest moving with each breath provided by the ventilator.