When providing postmortem care, the nurse places dentures in the mouth and closes the eyes and mouth of the patient within 2 to 4 hours after death. Why is the timing of the action so important?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Performing these actions before rigor mortis sets in makes them easier to accomplish, as the body is more pliable and can be positioned more naturally. Rigor mortis, the stiffening of the muscles after death, typically begins within 2 to 4 hours postmortem, making earlier intervention crucial for these care tasks.

When Providing Postmortem Care, the Nurse Places Dentures in the Mouth