After the death of a patient and before other nursing interventions are implemented, the nurse should:
a. place the patient in a supine position and elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees.
b. wait an hour to prepare the patient for viewing.
c. place the patient in a side-lying position to allow drainage.
d. exclude the family while the body is being prepared.
A
Immediately after death and before other activities are begun, place the body in supine position, and elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees to decrease rigor mortis. Ask family members if they have requests for preparation or viewing of the body (such as position of the body, special clothing, shaving). Determine whether they wish to be present or assist with care of the body. This provides closure for those who wish to assist with body preparation.
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