CMS Fundamentals Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Continuing standard precautions after death is an infection control practice in postmortem care. Even after life ends, body fluids and tissues can still carry infectious agents, so PPE, hand hygiene, safe handling, and proper cleaning and disposal remain essential to protect staff and others. This approach keeps safety policies in place during the transition from care to handling the body.

Other aspects of postmortem care focus on presenting or handling the body for viewing, cultural and personal respect, and safeguarding the deceased's privacy and dignity—such as positioning the body, using a shroud, or protecting family confidentiality—not on infection prevention.