Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

What does ASA 6 refer to?

1. A morbid patient

2. A patient with a severe systemic disease

3. A brain-dead patient whose organs are being prepared for transplant

4. A patient with mild symptoms

The correct answer is: A brain-dead patient whose organs are being prepared for transplant

ASA 6 refers to a brain-dead patient whose organs are being prepared for transplant. In the context of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification system, a score of 6 indicates a declared brain death where the individual has no neurological function, yet the organ donor process is being initiated. This classification is crucial for healthcare providers to know the patient's condition when assessing the appropriateness of certain medical interventions, especially in the context of organ donation. This classification helps to communicate the severity of a patient's condition in a standardized manner, facilitating clinical decision-making and ensuring proper care protocols are followed. The focus is on the patient’s neurological status and the planned involvement in organ procurement, highlighting the importance of understanding such distinctions in critical care settings.