Decedent Identification & Intake Procedures Flashcards

Livor mortis (lividity) refers to which postmortem change, and what information can it provide?

Answer: The purplish discoloration caused by blood settling due to gravity; it can help estimate time and position of death

Livor mortis is the purplish-red discoloration caused by gravity-driven pooling of blood after circulation ceases, and its location and fixity can help estimate time of death and postmortem body position.

Approximately when does rigor mortis typically begin after death, and how long does it generally last?

Answer: Begins 2–6 hours after death and resolves within 24–48 hours

Rigor mortis typically begins 2–6 hours after death, reaches maximum stiffness around 12 hours, and resolves within 24–48 hours as muscles decompose.

What is the primary purpose of a body receipt form completed during decedent intake?

Answer: To document the legal transfer of custody and note the condition of the remains at the time of receipt

A body receipt form documents the legal transfer of custody from one party to the funeral home and records the condition of the remains, providing a baseline record that protects all parties.

Prior to cremation, why must a mortuary technician check whether the decedent has an implanted cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator?

Answer: Because the device must be removed to avoid explosion hazards within the cremation chamber

Pacemakers and defibrillators contain batteries and sealed components that can explode at cremation temperatures, posing a serious safety hazard to staff and equipment.

What personal protective equipment (PPE) does OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard require when a mortuary technician handles human remains?

Answer: Gloves, gown or apron, eye protection, and mask or face shield as appropriate for the task

OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) requires appropriate PPE including gloves, protective clothing, and eye/face protection based on the anticipated exposure level.

When transporting human remains across state lines, which document is commonly required by receiving states?

Answer: A transit permit or transportation permit issued by the state where death occurred

Most states require a transit permit issued by the state of death before human remains can be legally transported across state lines to another jurisdiction.

What is the purpose of maintaining 'chain of custody' documentation throughout the intake and preparation process?

Answer: To create a verifiable record of every person who had custody of or access to the decedent, ensuring accountability and preventing misidentification

Chain of custody documentation creates an unbroken, verifiable record of all individuals who handled the decedent, which is essential for legal accountability and preventing catastrophic misidentification errors.