Question

The nurse demonstrates an important principle of postmortem care by:

a. Removing all indwelling catheters and tubes.
b. Calling the mortician to declare death.
c. Preparing the body to look as clean and natural as possible.
d. Pulling the sheet over the client's face until the family is comfortably seated in the room.

Answer 1

The nurse practices postmortem care by preparing the body to look clean and natural, respecting the deceased and providing closure for family and friends.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse demonstrates an important principle of postmortem care by preparing the body to look as clean and natural as possible. This involves practices that ensure dignity and respect for the deceased, and may include cleaning the body, positioning it in a natural, restful appearance, and performing other tasks like closing the eyes or mouth if needed. In many health care settings, a careful protocol is followed to respect the sensibilities of the family and any cultural or religious practices they may observe. The act of preparing the body in this dignified manner also helps provide closure for grieving family and friends, recognizing the importance of acknowledging the death in a ceremonial or ritualistic way, which is a common element across different societies and religions.