A common practice for Muslims when a family member is dying is?

• A. A family member may request to be present to whisper a proclamation of faith before death
• B. The family must leave the room
• C. The patient must be transferred to a different facility
• D. The healthcare team can perform any procedure without consent

Answer: (A)

In end-of-life care for Muslims, honoring spiritual needs and involving family in meaningful rituals is important. A common and respectful practice is to have a family member present to whisper the declaration of faith to the dying person, often the shahada, so they can affirm their faith at the moment of death. This option reflects supporting the patient’s religious beliefs and providing comfort through familiar prayers and presence.

The other options don’t align with this approach. Requiring the family to leave the room disregards the value many Muslims place on family support at the end of life. Transferring to another facility isn’t a religious requirement and can disrupt important spiritual practices. And performing procedures without consent violates patient autonomy and ethical standards in healthcare.