Final answer:
The nurse should express sympathy to the family after a patient dies, accommodate the family's wishes regarding viewing the body and respectfully inform them of any necessary limitations on their time with the deceased.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient dies, nurses must balance clinical protocols with compassion for the patient's family. According to best practices, the nurse should express sympathy to the family (e.g., "I am sorry for your loss") and allow them some time to grieve before initiating postmortem care. Therefore, they're encouraged to provide a compassionate presence, acknowledging the family's loss and showing support rather than rushing through procedures.
It is also important that the nurse respect the family's wishes and cultural practices regarding viewing the body and the removal of tubes and IV lines. As such, leaving tubes and IV lines in place until the family has the opportunity to view the body is a practice that respects the family's need to see their loved one at peace and undisturbed initially after death. While time with the deceased loved one is typically offered, informing the family about any necessary limitations should be done sensitively, focusing on the needs and requests of the family in that moment.
These practices are consistent with the principles of hospice care, which aims to provide dignity and comfort for both patients and their families at the end of life, allowing for a compassionate environment during this difficult time.