The requirement for the certification of death in the United Kingdom (UK) is currently undergoing unprecedented change, partly because of the Shipman Inquiry. Doctors undergo little training in completion of death certificates and inaccuracies can therefore arise. This survey compares the causes of death of 30 patients as cited by trainees, consultant intensivists and a consultant pathologist in one intensive care unit. We also review the changes in death certification that may be instituted as a result of proposed reforms to current legislation.
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