Recognition of life extinct and the processes of death

Thomas Shrehorn
Friday, October 23, 2009

A paramedic has the responsibility to confirm deaths within the community in which they work and there are distinct protocols to follow. They also have the responsibility to decide whether or not to carry out cardiopulmonary resuscitation on expected and unexpected deaths. The recognition of life extinct (ROLE) protocol included in the Joint Colleges Ambulance Liaison Committee Guidelines (2006) provides guidance on when, and when not, to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation on patients but does not cover the processes occurring after death. Death is a process which occurs in stages and within certain time constraints, depending on intrinsic and extrinsic factors. This article covers the processes of death and the timelines in which they occur and aims to improve the paramedic's knowledge and ability to make sound judgements and assist with providing justifications of confirming death alongside the ROLE protocol to relatives, the police and the coroner.

Subscribe to get full access to the Journal of Paramedic Practice

Thank you for vising the Journal of Paramedic Practice and reading our archive of expert clinical content. If you would like to read more from the only journal dedicated to those working in emergency care, you can start your subscription today for just £48.

CPD Focus

Reading the Journal of Paramedic Practice counts towards your professional development

Develop your career

We provide professional information dedicated to paramedics covering training, education and jobs

Stay informed

Get the latest clinical information to ensure you are aware of the latest think and best practice in paramedicne

Subscribe now

Already registered? - Sign in here