After obtaining consent for cremation, if the deceased has a pacemaker, the funeral practitioner should

• A. Proceed with cremation
• B. Remove the pacemaker without consent
• C. Contact the next of kin for consent to remove the pacemaker
• D. Consult the physician

Answer: (C)

When cremation is planned for a body with an implanted pacemaker, you can’t assume the device will be removed automatically. The pacemaker must be dealt with separately because it poses safety risks during cremation, and its removal requires authorization from the person who has decision-making rights for the deceased.

The best course is to contact the next of kin to obtain consent specifically for removing the pacemaker. If they consent, arrange for removal by qualified personnel and document the consent. This respects the family’s wishes and legal rights, and ensures the procedure is performed safely before cremation.

Proceeding with cremation without addressing the device, or removing it without consent, is not appropriate. Consulting a physician can provide medical guidance, but the authority to approve removal rests with the next of kin or the decedent’s documented wishes.