TheatrePracticeStandardsGeneric1

• The deceased patient should be straightened and placed into a body bag to await
collection.
In The Event of an Unexpected Death Occurring in West Cornwall Hospital (in addition
to the above guidelines)
• There is an unmanned mortuary on site
• The portering staff must be contacted regarding the death of a patient and the need to
remove the deceased patient to the on-site mortuary
• If there is gross contamination by body fluids, the deceased patient should be washed.
• The deceased patient should be straightened and placed into a body bag to await
collection.
Outline Procedure for ‘Last Offices
• Last Offices should be carried out within 2 – 4 hours of death
• All drains must be left in position
• Catheters or cannula should be closed with a spigot.
• Endotracheal or tracheostomy tubes should remain in situ.
• Wounds should be covered by a dressing
• Document all tubes/equipment remaining, e.g. tunnelled skin catheters, pacemaker.
• Apply petroleum jelly to lips and peri-oral area. Suction oropharynx if patient previously
intubated/had a tracheostomy
• A cadaver bag/zip-up bag should be used; absorbent sheets may be placed on either
side of the head.
• It is advisable to ascertain from the anaesthetist in advance that permission is granted
to remove either the endotracheal tube or tracheotomy tube if the family wishes to view
the body.
• Staff should ensure that all documents are complete at the time of death.
• It is essential that infection control and good hygiene of practice throughout all stages
in this care, including transfer to the mortuary.
• As a mark of respect, it is appropriate for a registered practitioner to escort the
deceased to the theatre suite exit.
• The relatives should be given the opportunity to pay their last respects, if this is their
preference. The provision of a private waiting area for relatives in the vicinity of the
operating department is recommended.
• A quiet area: the Anaesthetic Room, Recovery if there are no other patients or the
theatre itself, should be made available to allow them to be alone with the deceased.
• It is essential that operating department staff are given appropriate support following
the death of a patient in the area. A Confidential Counselling Service is available
for all staff: 01872 252770.
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