Carlifornia Crematory Manager Practice Exam

What should be done with prostheses during the cremation process?

1. They should be interred with the ashes

2. They should be removed and disposed of separately

3. They should be kept within the cremation chamber

4. They should be ground up with the ashes

The correct answer is: They should be removed and disposed of separately

During the cremation process, prostheses should be removed and disposed of separately to adhere to safety and regulatory standards. Prostheses are often made from materials like metal or plastic, which do not incinerate completely during cremation. If left in the cremation chamber, they can produce harmful emissions or damage cremation equipment. Additionally, certain regulations and guidelines exist to ensure that only organic matter is cremated, which further supports the practice of removing these items. Disposing of prostheses separately also helps in addressing environmental concerns, as many of these materials are not biodegradable and could cause issues when mixed with ashes or scattered in memorial practices. Proper handling and disposal of these items also show respect for the deceased and their families, ensuring that any remaining non-organic materials are treated in accordance with best practices for health and safety.