A nurse is completing postmortem documentation for a client.
Which of the following information should the nurse include in the documentation?

The correct answer is: d. Location of the identification tag on the client’s body.

Choice A reason: The cause of the client’s death is determined by a physician or a medical examiner and is not typically documented by nurses in postmortem documentation. The cause of death is a medical determination that involves a complex process, including examination and possibly an autopsy.

Choice B reason: The last set of the client’s vital signs is relevant prior to death and is part of the end-of-life documentation. However, once the client has passed away, recording vital signs is no longer applicable and is not included in postmortem documentation.

Choice C reason: A copy of the client’s advance directives is an important document that outlines the client’s wishes regarding medical treatment and interventions. While it is crucial before the client’s death, it does not need to be included in postmortem documentation, as it serves no purpose after death.

Choice D reason: The location of the identification tag on the client’s body is a critical piece of information that must be included in postmortem documentation. This ensures that the body is correctly identified throughout the postmortem process, including during transfer to a mortuary or funeral home.

Choice A rationale:

Replace the IV pump's tubing. Replacing the IV pump's tubing is not the appropriate action when the IV pump screen is malfunctioning. Malfunctioning tubing does not typically affect the pump's screen or settings.

Choice B rationale:

Clear the settings and reset the IV pump. Clearing the settings and resetting the IV pump may not be effective if the screen is malfunctioning. It is important to ensure the accuracy and safety of IV fluid administration, and troubleshooting the screen is not a reliable solution in the case of a malfunction.

Choice C rationale:

Plug the IV pump's cord into a different outlet. Changing the outlet may help if the issue is related to electrical power, but it is not the most appropriate action when the IV pump screen is malfunctioning. Safety concerns and potential equipment issues warrant discontinuing use and tagging the pump.

Choice D rationale:

Discontinue use and tag the IV pump. When the IV pump screen is malfunctioning, the safest and most appropriate action is to discontinue its use and tag the pump. This ensures that the malfunctioning equipment is not used on other patients and that a thorough inspection and repair can be conducted to prevent potential harm to the patient.