Need Information on Last Offices for Differing Cultures

[Paul Dunn]

Hello - As there seems to be little or no information available on the web, I thought I'd ask in here for some information.

I am studying for an NVQ Level 2 in Direct Care at Scunthorpe General Hospital, and need pointers to any material on Last Offices with respect to differing cultures (I have been taught how to proceed with a western christian patient, but not one of a different ethnic background) - This subject is very relevant to my work, as I am employed on an Acute Medicine For The Elderly ward.

I am particularly intersted in aspects of cleaning, ritual positioning (east facing etc), grooming and other hands on aspects of caring for the deceased prior to their transportation to the hospital mortuary.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.