SADrake718

Hi MyAimIsTrue BSN: I hope this email finds you well. I agree with what has been stated about checking scope of practice within state. I would add that you should check your agency policies/procedures. If one does not exist I would encourage you to take on this service! If one does exist I would encourage you to ask your educator provide an inservice. Happy to assist you in any way.

Greetings RNdreams7, RN: Great discussion and yes, very difficult situation for all involved. My response is from that as a medicolegal death investigator (MDI) with academic preparation and practice as a nurse. Most deaths that occur within an OR are reportable to the medical examiner/coroner/justice of peace (depending upon the jurisdiction). The rationale for the patient death being reportable is for several reasons: 1) was the initial reason for hospitalization due to injury/trauma 2) was the death related to the procedure/anesthesia 3) some states require OR deaths be reported respective of the death being unrelated to items 1 or 2. Obviously, additional questions will occur between the MDI and reporting nurse. I have typically taken these death reports from the circulating nurse and/or charge nurse and will frequently ask to speak with the surgeon and anesthesia/CRNA involved with the case. Additionally all medical interventions should remain in place and the patient transported to morgue. It is likely initial biological specimens will be requested along with medical records to include the anesthesia report. I would be happy to address any other questions or assist you in understanding the process, if needed.

Greetings @Samson406 I am new member and just reading your question. I am a forensic nurse in the field of medicolegal death investigation and happy to answer any questions.