Handling Deceased Patients with Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, UMMS has developed a number of protocols to guide staff decisions as they care for patients who are confirmed or suspected to have COVID-19. This includes guidelines for properly handling deceased patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 in order to minimize exposure to COVID-19 and ensure staff safety.


This guidance was updated on May 20 to include additional directions for clinical providers and updated guidance to facilitate discussions and interactions with the deceased patient’s family members.

Click here to view UMMS Guidance for Handling Deceased Patients with Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19

FAQs

Do the guidelines for handling deceased patients supersede our hospital’s established procedures for handling mass fatalities? 
No. These guidelines should be applied in combination with your hospital’s existing Emergency Management Procedures.  

Can the leadership at my specific hospital adjust these guidelines in any way? 
Yes. Leaders at each hospital have the flexibility to deploy institution-specific adjustments as needed.