Which of the following is a proper statement about postmortem care in relation to family involvement?

• A. No, under no circumstances
• B. Only with physician approval
• C. Only for documentation
• D. Yes, with appropriate guidelines

Answer: (D)

Postmortem care should honor the family's needs and beliefs while following the facility’s policies. Involving the family is appropriate, with guidelines that ensure respectful handling of the body, privacy, and consideration of cultural or religious practices. The nurse should communicate what will happen, offer opportunities for involvement (such as washing, dressing, viewing, or saying farewell) if desired, and obtain consent for any participation, all while maintaining safety and infection control. Coordinate with the rest of the care team—physician, social worker, chaplain—to support the family’s grieving process. Documentation, organ or tissue donation decisions, and transfer arrangements follow legal and policy requirements. The idea is that family involvement is permissible with appropriate guidelines.