Fundamental Of Nursing Nclex Practice Questions Related

Review Fundamental Of Nursing Nclex Practice Questions related questions and content

What is the most important legal responsibility for the healthcare team after a patient's death in a hospital?

  • A. Obtaining consent for an autopsy
  • B. Notifying the coroner or medical examiner
  • C. Labeling the body appropriately
  • D. Ensuring the attending physician issues the death certificate
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: After a patient's death in a hospital, the most crucial legal responsibility for the healthcare team is ensuring that the attending physician issues the death certificate. The death certificate is a vital legal document that confirms the cause of death and is required for legal and administrative purposes, including the completion of the patient's medical records and facilitating the family's ability to proceed with funeral arrangements and insurance claims. While other actions such as obtaining consent for an autopsy, notifying the coroner or medical examiner, and labeling the body appropriately are important, ensuring the timely and accurate issuance of the death certificate takes precedence in this scenario.