Post death procedure - East Cheshire NHS Trust

SECTION FOUR - PROCEDURES FOR MANAGEMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVEPROCESSES BY NURSING STAFF FOLLOWING PATIENT DEATHINTRODUCTIONThis policy applies to all wards and departments in the Macclesfield District GeneralHospital. Different procedures apply in Congleton War Memorial Hospital and Knutsford &District Community Hospital (please see section 8).In order to ensure good communication between the wards and General Office, theseprocedures seek to address the issues ensuing from the paperwork needed when a patientdies. This policy does not cover procedures relating to the actual nursing management ofdeath.1 FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF A PATIENTThe nurse caring for the patient post death should inform general office on ext. 1107as soon as possible that a death has occurred (if necessary, leaving a message onthe answer phone).2 IDENTITY BAND / NOTIFICATION OF DEATH FORMS / SHEET TICKETS2.1 Wrist and ankle identity bands must be checked that they contain the correct patientidentifiers. (see Policy and Procedure for Hospital In-Patients 2007) The notificationof death form is completed in duplicate. The top copy is fastened to the front of thecasenotes. The second copy remains in the book and not sent to Mortuary via porterwith the deceased.2.2 Three sheet tickets are completed, one is specifically designated for the front of theshroud, one is designated for the front of the sheet covering the body and a copyremains in the booklet. Any jewellery must be noted on the sheet/shroud ticket. E.g 1ring/ 1 chain/ 1pr earrings. It is essential to ensure that the list is accurate andcomplete as missing items lead to allegations of theft. To avoid items being removedby the family the list should be checked and attached as the body is wrapped.2.3 In order to prevent errors in the identification of deceased patients, her Majesty’sCoroner for Cheshire requires a Confirmation of Personal Details form (availablefrom the print room CPY 639) to be completed by the nurse performing last offices. Itis an addition to the above procedures.3 PROPERTY OF DECEASEDThis is listed in the patient's personal effects record, signatures are required. (SeeValuables and Property Policy). One witness must be a trained nurse. Carefulrecords of any items removed from the deceased by the family should be recordedas it is not unknown for there to be disputes over the possession of family heirlooms.o The property must be placed in patient’s property bags. Each bag must be clearlymarked with deceased patient’s name and ward number.o The top copy of the personal effects record must be stuck with sellotape in aprominent position either on one of the bags or fastened to the front of the notes withthe notification of death form.8/34