Georgia State Board of Funeral Service Practice Exam

What best defines the term 'final disposition'?

1. The first step in funeral planning

2. The complete disposal of a human body

3. The act of embalming only

4. The process of selecting a burial site

The correct answer is: The complete disposal of a human body

The term 'final disposition' is best defined as the complete disposal of a human body. This encompasses all methods by which a deceased person's remains are handled after death, whether through burial, cremation, entombment, or other forms of disposition. Understanding final disposition is critical in both funeral service practice and in meeting legal requirements, as it signifies the conclusion of the funeral process and the respectful handling of human remains. Other options focus on different aspects of funeral service. For example, the first step in funeral planning involves more preliminary actions like making arrangements or discussing preferences with loved ones. The act of embalming is a specific procedure that may be part of the overall funeral service but does not encompass the entirety of what final disposition means. Similarly, selecting a burial site is a part of the process but only relates to one method of final disposition, not its complete definition. Thus, the correct understanding of 'final disposition' as the complete disposal of a human body captures the essential nature of this term within the context of funeral service.