A video posted by an Algerian nurse on TikTok has sparked widespread controversy in Algeria, after she appeared documenting the preparation of the body of a deceased person inside a public hospital.
The video, which spread rapidly across social media since last Saturday, showed the nurse while preparing the body inside the intensive care unit of Slim Zemirli Hospital in the capital, Algiers.
Part of the deceased's body was exposed during the preparations, which provoked strong condemnation from internet users.
The content, which many described as "a violation of the sanctity of the dead and their privacy," led to immediate calls for an investigation and accountability for the nurse's actions.
Blogger Hakim Satouf commented:
"Some have become willing to do anything for views at the expense of others, even if it is at the expense of the dignity of a deceased person. Strict action must be taken against this nurse."
Meanwhile, activist Farida Al-Abri considered the video to be a "professional and ethical sin," emphasizing that "the dead have a sanctity that must be preserved."
On the other hand, some defended the nurse, such as user Yahya Wali, who argued that the video was merely an explanation of the nurse's work inside the hospital, denying that it was disrespectful to the deceased, as she did not reveal his face or identity.
For its part, the Algerian Ministry of Health issued a statement confirming that it would take all legal measures against the nurse, considering her actions "far from human and religious values," and that it represents an affront to the dignity of the deceased and the feelings of their family.
The statement added that the ministry would follow up on the administrative and judicial investigations, and that the hospital administration decided to suspend the nurse from work until the investigations are completed.