Which of the following are appropriate actions by the nurse during the immediate postmortem period? (Select all that apply.)
a. Remove all tubes, medical supplies, and equipment from the bedside.
b. Provide the family a place away from the patient's room to talk and grieve.
c. Bathe and dress the patient.
d. Ask the family if they want the patient's face covered or uncovered.
e. Recommend that the family donate the patient's organs as a way to find meaning from the death.
f. Notify the physician with the patient's time of death per institutional policy.
ANS: A, C, D, F
After death, you will provide postmortem care. First, remove the tubes, medical supplies, and equipment. Bathing and dressing the patient and making him or her look presentable for the family shows respect. Allow the family time with the patient; do not remove the body until they are ready. Contacting the physician and funeral home are carried out according to institutional policy. Covering or uncovering the face at removal should be done according to the family's wishes. Information about organ donation should be provided according to agency policy, but the nurse should not make recommendations—he or she should only present the option.
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