What should a funeral establishment do upon receipt of a body?

Upon receipt of a body, the appropriate action for a funeral establishment is to begin records documentation and take custody of the deceased. This step is critical as it ensures that the funeral home fulfills its legal and ethical responsibilities.

When a body is received, accurate records must be documented to track vital information about the deceased, such as identification details, location of the body, and any personal effects. This documentation is essential not only for compliance with legal regulations but also for maintaining the integrity of the funeral service process.

Taking custody of the deceased means that the funeral establishment assumes responsibility for the body, which includes ensuring that it is handled with care and respect. This process helps to establish a chain of custody, which is especially important in cases of death that might require further investigation or legal oversight.

This initial step of documentation and custody is foundational for all subsequent actions that may include notifying medical examiners or law enforcement if necessary, preparing the body for viewing, or arranging for burial or cremation. It is critical before moving on to any other procedures.