Title: Explain the responsibilities of a funeral director.
Course: Introduction to Mortuary Science (14299) > Section: Understanding Laws Related to Funeral Service Practice and Public Health

Explanation should include

- handling decedent
  - first call
  - transfer process

- meeting grieving family
- outlining procedures for a family requesting an autopsy
- knowing the liability of an embalmer for shaving a beard, cutting hair, or otherwise altering the appearance of a decedent
- handling the personal effects of a decedent
- understanding the extent of control a funeral director has over a funeral
- determining the validity of funeral expenses
- understanding items allowable on a funeral bill.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What are the key topics of a funeral director’s first meeting with surviving family members at the arrangement conference?
- What are the circumstances under which family may request an autopsy?
- How long can a decedent remain unrefrigerated if not embalmed, according to Virginia regulations?