Which of the following must be included in a cremation authorization?

Including positive identification of the deceased's remains in a cremation authorization is essential for several key reasons. It ensures that the correct individual is being cremated and helps to prevent any potential mix-ups that could occur with multiple cases in a crematory setting. Proper identification confirms that the remains belong to the individual for whom the authorization has been sought, providing peace of mind to the family and adherence to legal and ethical standards in the funeral profession.

The inclusion of positive identification also supports the integrity of the cremation process and the trust families place in funeral services. In Ohio, as in many other jurisdictions, the law typically mandates clear identification to proceed with cremation, reinforcing the importance of this documentation in the process. This step not only safeguards the deceased's dignity but also protects the funeral home and crematory from potential liability issues that might arise from errors in identification.

While the other elements listed in the question can be relevant for various processes in funeral service, they do not bear the same critical weight in the context of a cremation authorization as positive identification does.