What is one thing nurses should not do during post-mortem care?

During post-mortem care, it is essential for nurses to handle the deceased with respect and sensitivity. One key consideration is that dentures should typically be left in place unless specific arrangements or protocols dictate their removal. Dentures provide not only physical structure to the face but also contribute to the patient’s identity as recognized by their loved ones. Therefore, retaining dentures can be important for honoring the individual’s appearance.

The other tasks, such as cleaning the body, positioning it comfortably, and documenting the time of death, are standard practices that nurses are trained to do during post-mortem care. Cleaning the body ensures that it is prepared for the family or for further arrangements, positioning helps to present the body in a respectful manner, and accurate documentation is vital for legal and medical records. Each of these actions reflects best practices in end-of-life care, emphasizing dignity and professionalism in handling the deceased.