Question

Maastricht classification of donation after cardiac death. What category is stage 3 ?

• A. Awaiting cardiac arrest
• B. Brought in dead
• C. Unsuccessful resuscitation
• D. Cardiac arrest after brain-stem death

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The Maastricht classification is a system used to categorize donation after cardiac death (DCD). It is critical in determining the conditions under which organ donation can occur following cardiac death. The classification includes five categories, each describing specific scenarios where donation may be possible:

1. Category 1: Brought in dead - Individuals who are declared dead after unsuccessful resuscitation efforts outside the hospital.
2. Category 2: Unsuccessful resuscitation - Patients in a hospital environment who suffer cardiac arrest and cannot be revived.
3. Category 3: Awaiting cardiac arrest - Patients who are under a controlled setting where cardiac arrest is anticipated, generally after a decision to withdraw life support in the case of severe but reversible illness.
4. Category 4: Cardiac arrest after brain-stem death - Typically involves donors who experience cardiac arrest during or after being declared brain-stem dead.
5. Category 5: Unexpected cardiac arrest in the context of a planned withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment.

In response to the question, stage 3 of the Maastricht classification is "Awaiting cardiac arrest."