Question of the Week – March 8, 2023

Rationale:

Answer: 4

Rationale: The nurse should notify the medical examiner or the coroner when a family wishes to avoid having an autopsy on a deceased family member. Normally the medical examiner will honor the family request unless there is a state law requiring the autopsy. Depending on the state, it is not mandatory for every client who is DOA to have an autopsy. However, many states require an autopsy in specific circumstances, including sudden death, a suspicious death, and death within 24 hours of admission to the hospital. Autopsy is not a requirement under federal law.

Level of Cognitive Ability: Applying

Client Needs: Safe and Effective Care Environment

Integrated Process: Caring

Content Area: Developmental Stages: End- of-Life Care

Health Problem: Mental Health: Grief/Loss