Providing Specialized Care For Residents With Changes In Health

Rigor Mortis

Learn about the definition for this nursing term.

What is Rigor Mortis?

definition

Stiffness and rigidity that sets in a few hours after death. After rigor mortis, limbs are very difficult to move or position. The CNA/Nurse Aide should work as quickly as possible to provide post-mortem care, placing the dependent in a supine positon and arranging the limbs, to prevent rigor mortis from putting joints in an awkward position. Follow the facility's policies and procedures.

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