Explain the responsibilities of a funeral director.

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?