Assume the person with the right to control the disposition of a decedent in your care directs you to release the body to another funeral establishment. When must you surrender custody of the body?

• A. Promptly
• B. Within 12 hours
• C. Within 24 hours
• D. As soon as practical

Answer: (A)

The key rule is to surrender custody of the body promptly when the person who has the right to control disposition directs you to release to another funeral establishment. Prompt means without unnecessary delay—act as soon as you have clear authorization and there are no legal holds or verifications preventing the transfer. This respects the designated authority of the person governing disposition and supports a smooth, respectful transition to the receiving funeral home. Delays beyond what is reasonably necessary would undermine that authority and slow down the disposition process. Only legal holds, investigations, or required verifications would justify postponing transfer; otherwise, immediate action aligns with professional duties.