Hospital post mortem examination standards
Document Type
Standards
Summary
We have developed standards for the management of hospital post-mortem examinations.
These standards apply to NHS boards and staff involved in hospital post-mortem examinations. This includes, but is not limited to:
- pathologists,
- anatomical pathology technologists,
- mortuary technicians,
- medical and nursing staff,
- staff involved in transportation of the deceased,
- and staff involved with bereavement care and support
Overview of standards
Standard 1: Each NHS board has a governance structure in place for the safe, effective and person-centred management of hospital post-mortem examinations and reporting.
Standard 2: Authorisation is obtained for all hospital post-mortem examinations in line with legislation and national guidance.
Standard 3: The deceased and people who have been bereaved are treated with dignity and respect, and in accordance with their wishes.
Standard 4: Hospital post-mortem examination and reporting takes place in line with legislation and national and professional guidance.
Standard 5: Each NHS board has processes in place for the removal, storage, handling, transportation and disposal of the body, embryos, fetuses, tissue blocks, glass slides or organs.
Standard 6: Each NHS board ensures staff have the knowledge, skills and experience to deliver a safe, effective and person-centred post-mortem examination service.