Which item is used to identify the deceased and ensure proper release?

• A. Infection Control Postmortem
• B. Identification Tags
• C. Shroud Use
• D. Privacy After Death

Answer: (B)

Reliable identification and proper release hinge on a clear, durable identifier attached to the body that travels with it through the handoff process. Identification tags carry essential information—name, date of birth or hospital ID number, date/time of death, and the authorized recipient or funeral home. They create a tangible link between the deceased and official records, verify identity, and support a correct chain of custody from the medical facility to the morgue and to the family or designated handler. Without this tag, there’s a higher risk of misidentification and wrong release. The other options address different duties: infection control postmortem concerns health risks, shroud use relates to dignity and privacy during handling, and privacy after death focuses on protecting personal information rather than identifying the person for release. Identification tags are the item used to identify the deceased and ensure proper release.