What should be done with cremated remains if no urn is specified on the authorization form?

When an authorization form does not specify an urn for cremated remains, placing the remains in a temporary container is the appropriate course of action. This ensures that the remains are handled with dignity and respect while awaiting further instructions from the family regarding their final disposition. Temporary containers are specifically designed to hold cremated remains securely and protectively, which is crucial during this interim period.

Using a temporary container also aligns with the best practices in the funeral industry, providing a practical solution until the family can decide on a more permanent option. This practice respects the wishes of the deceased and the family, while adhering to legal and ethical standards in funeral directing.

Other options, such as scattering remains immediately or burying them without a container, may not be appropriate without explicit instructions from the family, and returning remains in a bag does not honor the sensitivity surrounding this matter. Thus, utilizing a temporary container is the most respectful and responsible approach in this situation.