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Do not leave a dying patient alone. He may appear unconscious but he may hear and
understand all that is being said

17.2 CARE AFTER DEATH
Definition: This is the care given to the body after death also called post-mortem care.
Purpose
To show respect for the dead
To prepare the body for burial
To prevent the spread of infection
To show kindness to the family
Equipment
1. Basin for water, washcloth, and towel
2. Cotton
3. Gauze
4. Dressings and tape if necessary
5. Clean sheet
6. Stretcher
7. Forceps
8. Name tag
9. Gloves, if necessary
Procedure
1. Note the exact time of death and chart it
2. If the doctor is present call him to pronounce death
3. If the family members are not present, call them
4. Close the eyes, and mouth, place the body flat its back arms and legs straight.
5. Remove the blanket from the bed the body with a sheet
6. Ask the family to wait outside while you prepare the body
7. Change any soiled dressings with clean ones
8. Remove the gown and wash the body
9. Pack all orifices with cotton wool to prevent soiling from stool urine, vaginal discharge,
or nasal discharge
10. If the mouth will not remain closed, tie gauze or bandage under the chin and over the
head for a while
11. Tie the thumbs and large toes together
12. Place a sheet over the body
13. Move the body to the morgue on a stretcher
14. be sure the family receives all articles and clothes that belong to the dead
15. If the deceased was in isolation, continue isolation technique throughout this Procedure

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