NBE Funeral Directing Practice Exam

Who is referred to as an informant in the funeral context?

1. The funeral director

2. One who supplies vital statistical information

3. A family member of the deceased

4. A witness to the death

The correct answer is: One who supplies vital statistical information

In the context of funeral directing, an informant is defined as the individual who provides vital statistical information required for official documentation following a death. This information typically includes details such as the deceased's name, date of birth, date of death, and other pertinent information that is necessary for death certificates and legal purposes. This role is crucial because accurate and complete information is essential for legal records and for the family to navigate the various administrative aspects that stem from the passing of a loved one. While family members of the deceased may often fulfill this role, it is not restricted to them; it could also be someone more removed from the immediate family who possesses the correct knowledge. In contrast, while a funeral director interacts with families and facilitates the funeral process, their role does not define them as the informant. Similarly, while family members may provide information, having the specific duty of providing all vital statistical data aligns more closely with the definition of an informant. A witness to the death may have information regarding the circumstances, but they typically would not be responsible for the vital statistical information required for documentation.