The nurse is caring for a patient who has just passed away.Which is the priority action of the nurse?

A) Ask the family to leave the room so that postmortem care can be provided.
B) Have the patient's family members sign consent forms for organ donation.
C) Remove all drainage tubes and IV lines in case an autopsy is to be performed.
D) Provide postmortem care in a manner consistent with religious or cultural beliefs.

Question

Amanda Griffin · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : D, Explanation :  A nurse assumes responsibility for postmortem care (i.e.,care of the body after death).Give postmortem care with dignity and sensitivity and in a manner consistent with a patient's religious or cultural beliefs.Ask family members if and how they would like to help care for the body.Make arrangements for a member of the professional staff (e.g.,spiritual care provider)to stay with family members if they do not wish to participate in body care.Remove all catheters,tubes,or indwelling devices from the patient's body,except in the case of autopsy.In that case all medical devices should be left in place.

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