Judge OKs brain tests in Reno end-of-life case

Washoe County Family Court Judge Frances Doherty said she wants lawyers for Aden Hailu's father and Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center to submit arguments by Jan. 8 about whether additional CT scan and eye reflex tests should be performed.

David O'Mara, attorney for the father, Fanuel Gebreyes, lost a bid to delay brain electroencephalogram, or EEG, tests until Hailu receives additional thyroid treatments that could boost her metabolism and better measure her condition.

After lengthy discussion about the endocrine system during the four-hour court hearing, including testimony from one of Hailu's former doctors, neurologist Aaron Heide, Doherty said she didn't have any evidence to conclude continued thyroid treatment would significantly alter results of tests to determine brain activity.

The hospital released a statement calling the money argument "disheartening" and insisting that treatment decisions are made according to "best practices that align with patient safety and administration of quality care."

The hospital said Tuesday the assessment was made according to "nationally recognized neurological standards" and said doctors remain "willing to conduct any and all tests currently in use in the United States in order to confirm the original diagnosis."