Contribute to the care of a deceased person

Unit aim

This unit is aimed at those working in a wide range of settings. It provides the learner with the knowledge and skills required to contribute to the care, preparation and transfer of the deceased individual and provide immediate support to those affected by the death.

Outcome 1 Know the factors that affect how individuals are cared for after death

1. outline legal requirements and agreed ways of working that underpin the care of deceased individuals

2. describe how beliefs and religious and cultural factors affect how deceased individuals are cared for

3. identify the physical changes that take place after death and how this may affect laying out and moving individuals

4. identify diseases and conditions that necessitate specialist treatment or precautions when caring for and transferring deceased individuals

5. describe the precautions needed when undertaking the care and transfer of deceased individuals with specific high risk diseases and conditions.

Outcome 2 Contribute to supporting those who are close to deceased individuals

1. describe the likely immediate impact of an individual’s death on others who are close to the deceased individual

2. support others immediately following the death of the individual in ways that:

• reduce their distress

• respect the deceased individual.

Outcome 3 Contribute to preparing deceased individuals prior to transfer

1. follow agreed ways of working to ensure that the deceased person is correctly identified

2. carry out agreed role in preparing the deceased individual in a manner that respects their dignity, beliefs and culture

3. use protective clothing to minimise the risk of infection during preparation of the deceased individual

4. contribute to recording any property and valuables that are to remain with the deceased individual.

Outcome 4 Contribute to transferring deceased individuals

1. carry out agreed role in contacting appropriate organisations

2. carry out agreed role in transferring the deceased individual in line with agreed ways of working and any wishes expressed by the individual

3. record details of the care and transfer of the deceased person in line with agreed ways of working.

Outcome 5 Manage own feelings in relation to the death of individuals

1. identify ways to manage own feelings in relation to an individual’s death

2. utilise support systems to deal with own feelings in relation to an individual’s death.