Funeral Directing Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions from the provided lecture notes on funeral directing, including terminology, procedures, and ethical guidelines.

What does FAD stand for in funeral directing terminology?

Funeral Arranging and Directing

What is alkaline hydrolysis?

The reduction of a dead human body to essential elements through a water-based dissolution process using alkaline chemicals, heat, agitation, and pressure.

What is a cash advance item in funeral service?

Any item of service or merchandise described as a 'cash advance' obtained from a third party and paid for by the funeral provider.

What is the primary responsibility when performing visual identification?

To verify that the deceased is the right person beyond any doubt.

What is the purpose of the embalming authorization form?

To provide permission for embalming the body and indemnification of the funeral home.

What is a 'non-declinable basic service' in funeral directing?

The only fee which the consumer cannot decline unless state or local law requires otherwise.

What steps should be taken when removing implanted medical devices prior to cremation?

They must be removed with family authorization by a licensed embalmer before cremation.

What is a common practice for describing personal property before a funeral?

Items should be described by color rather than brand or type to avoid misrepresentation.

What are the eight basic objectives of funeral service?

Attention to detail, reverence for sacred objects, appropriate deference to clergy, dignity and decorum, smoothness of procedure, flexibility, awareness of honorarium policy, and local variations.

What is the method defined as natural organic reduction in the context of cremation alternatives?

The contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil, also known as human composting.

What does the 'fill in the blank' term 'cash advance items include services from a third party such as ___, ___, and ___?'

Cemetery services, flowers, and obituary notices.

What is the significance of a visual identification process?

It establishes trust and certifies the death has occurred, pivotal for grieving families.