Accra:First paragraph of the news story.
According to Ghana Web, morticians like Ewurabena Quartey, manager of Jabez Dominic Funeral Home, knock before entering a mortuary as a sign of respect for the deceased. This practice is part of a broader approach to maintain dignity and respect for those who have passed away.
Quartey explained that treating the deceased with respect is important and likened the act of knocking to entering someone's room. This practice signals to the deceased that someone is entering, preserving their dignity even in death.
Morticians also maintain this respect during the preparation of the body for burial. Quartey mentioned that workers often speak to the deceased and ask for permission before proceeding with tasks such as bathing or embalming, despite knowing there will be no response.
She compared these practices to the 'last offices' performed in hospitals, where nurses and health practitioners ask for permission before dealing with the deceased's body. This tradition helps morticians remember they are handling a person's body and privacy.
Quartey also noted that morticians often encounter scars, deformities, or private aspects of the body, which emphasizes the importance of respecting the deceased's privacy. This respectful approach reinforces the bond between the mortician and the deceased, ensuring that whatever is seen remains confidential.