Mortuary

The hospital mortuary serves as a temporary storage place for dead bodies, either for post-mortem, handover to authorities or family, or final disposal. It can function solely for storage or include provisions for post-mortem examinations. The mortuary typically includes refrigerated body storage, a body wash area, body viewing and preparation rooms. In contrast, the autopsy unit investigates the cause of death and comprises an autopsy room, pre and post autopsy rooms, change room, and observation area. The size of the mortuary depends on required body storage and death rate. It should be located away from clinical areas, preferably on the ground floor or basement for discreet access by ambulances and authorities.