A nurse is providing post-mortem care for a client who recently passed away. The provider has pronounced the death, and no autopsy is required. Arrange the following nursing actions in the appropriate sequential order to prepare the body for family viewing.
- 1Determine if the family has specific cultural or religious requests regarding care of the body.
- 2Close the client's eyes and place a small pillow under their head.
- 3Remove all intravenous lines and indwelling catheters.
- 4Cleanse the body and dress the client in a clean hospital gown.
- 5Provide a calm environment and invite the family into the room to view the body.
Answer
The correct sequence is: assess cultural preferences, close the eyes and position the head, remove medical tubes, cleanse and dress the body, and finally invite the family back into the room.
The correct sequence prioritizes psychosocial needs first by assessing family cultural preferences. Next, the nurse addresses physiological changes by elevating the head and closing the eyes to prevent facial discoloration. Afterward, the nurse removes medical equipment and performs hygiene care to restore a natural appearance. Finally, the family is invited to view the deceased in a prepared, peaceful environment.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Post-Mortem Care Sequential Priorities