Decedent Identification & Intake Procedures Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Decedent Identification & Intake Procedures flashcards as text
What is algor mortis, and how is it used in mortuary and forensic settings?
Answer: The postmortem cooling of the body to ambient temperature; used to help estimate time of death
Algor mortis is the cooling of the body after death, and by applying the general rule of approximately 1–1.5°F per hour of cooling, investigators can estimate the approximate postmortem interval.
When a decedent's identity cannot be confirmed by any available documentation, what should a mortuary technician do?
Answer: Hold the remains securely, notify appropriate authorities, and document the unknown status until positive identification is made
Unidentified remains must be held securely while authorities are notified and a formal identification process is initiated; proceeding with disposition without positive ID is ethically and legally prohibited.
What does the term 'putrefaction' refer to in the context of postmortem changes?
Answer: The bacterial decomposition of soft tissue, resulting in gas formation, odor, and discoloration
Putrefaction is the decomposition of soft tissue driven by bacteria and enzymes, producing characteristic gases, odors, and tissue discoloration that accelerate over time.
Which of the following is an example of a legal authorization document that must be obtained from the next of kin before embalming can proceed?
Answer: A written embalming authorization form signed by the legally authorized person
Embalming requires written informed consent from the legally authorized next of kin or their agent, because it is an invasive procedure that alters the body and is not legally mandatory in most cases.
What does the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Funeral Rule require funeral homes to provide to families during the intake and arrangement process?
Answer: An itemized price list of all funeral goods and services offered
The FTC Funeral Rule requires funeral homes to provide a General Price List (GPL) itemizing the cost of all offered goods and services so consumers can make informed decisions.
Why is it important to document the presence of a pacemaker, prosthetics, or surgical implants during the initial intake examination of a decedent?
Answer: To ensure proper handling during preparation, avoid cremation hazards, and facilitate accurate disposition planning
Documenting implants and devices is critical because some (like pacemakers) must be removed before cremation for safety, while prosthetics may affect preparation techniques and disposition options.
When completing a decedent's intake paperwork, which piece of information is most critical for accurately completing the death certificate?
Answer: The decedent's full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and information about the attending physician
The death certificate requires exact legal identification details and attending physician information; errors in name, date of birth, or Social Security number cause legal and administrative complications for the family.