Verification that death has occurred, is a formal process in line with national guidance, and is associated with clear legal responsibilities and exemplary clinical and communication skills.
This course aims to provide delegates with the underpinning theory and demonstration of a generic procedure of verification of expected death, to increase the skills, confidence and knowledge of Registered Nurses and Allied Health Professionals working in a variety of clinical settings (Hospitals, Community, Care Homes, Hospice), and who will be involved in situations where they will need the competency and professionalism to verify an expected death. This will enable them to provide seamless dignified care for the deceased, whilst minimising distress for families and carers following an expected death any time during the day or night.
*There may be local variations of the clinical procedure, therefore delegates must work within their own policy.
Key Vocabulary:
Exploring disease trajectory and recognising dying phase
Proactive planning to avoid crisis in the last days of life
Breaking bad news and enhanced communication skills
Identifying situations where it is appropriate to verify death and those which are not
Legal Responsibilities:
The Procedure - How to Verify Expected Death
Role of the Medical Examiner
Role of the Coroner
Tissue / Organ Donation
Considerations for delivering care after death
Support for the family/significant others
Debrief for staff
After undertaking training, delegates will be able to apply the knowledge and skills gained to then have their competency assessed in their workplace, resulting in the ability to verify expected death with confidence, adhering to their own professional code of conduct.
