CHAPTER 31 Death
Actions at death of a baby
• Ensure that a formal note is inserted in the chart indicating death and the assessment made to ascertain this.
• Collect blood on a neonatal screening card (if baby has not had one collected already); label as post-mortem.
• Ensure that the events leading up to the death are adequately and clearly described in the chart notes.
• Discuss post-mortem examination (PM) with the parents before they leave the hospital — make a note in the chart as to whether the parents agree to a PM or do not want a PM.
• Written consent from a parent is now standard procedure (and a legal requirement in many places, e.g. Queensland) before proceeding with any PM.
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