A nurse is assisting in providing postmortem care for a client who was a devout follower of Hinduism. Which of the following requests should the nurse anticipate from the client's family?
Explanation & Rationale
The correct answer is d. To cremate the client’s body. Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect because Hinduism does not generally prohibit medical personnel from touching the deceased’s body. In fact, it is customary for family members to prepare the body for cremation, which may include washing and dressing. Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect as there is no specific tradition in Hinduism that requires the family to stay with the body for 8 hours following death. Choice C reason: This option is incorrect because Hinduism typically does not prescribe burial within 24 hours of death. While some religions have specific time frames for burial, Hinduism generally prefers cremation over burial. Choice D reason: This is the correct choice. Cremation is preferred in Hinduism and is usually performed as soon as possible, traditionally by the next day. It is believed to release the soul and help in its onward journey.