Tennessee Funeral Service Laws Rules & Regulations (LRR) Practice Exam

What should a funeral director do if a decedent's cremains will not fully fit into an urn?

1. Use a larger urn

2. Discard the excess cremains

3. Put the excess cremains in a temporary urn

4. Keep the excess cremains at the facility

The correct answer is: Put the excess cremains in a temporary urn

When dealing with the situation where a decedent's cremains will not fully fit into an urn, the most appropriate action is to use a temporary urn for the excess cremains. This approach recognizes the importance of respecting the decedent and the wishes of the family by ensuring that all cremains are handled appropriately. Utilizing a temporary urn allows for the safe storage of the excess cremains while the family considers their options, whether that be acquiring a larger urn later or making other arrangements. It preserves the sanctity of the remains and maintains ethical standards in funeral practices. Other alternatives, such as using a larger urn or discarding excess cremains, may not be respectful to the deceased or acceptable to the family. Additionally, keeping the excess cremains at the facility without proper identification or consent may lead to ethical and legal concerns. Thus, opting for a temporary urn upholds the dignity of the decedent while also providing flexibility for the family.