What to expect from an inquest and how to be prepared for difficulties
Pennels, C.J.
Professional Nurse 18(6): 333-336
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0266-8130 PMID: 12630245 Document Number: 554029
An inquest aims to find out the facts surrounding a sudden death without apportioning blame. When a patient dies in hospital, if the cause of death is unknown or unnatural, nurses can be called to the inquest as witnesses. This paper explains how to prepare for this, what to expect during a hearing, and the importance of using the experience for reflective practice.