What is an "autopsy"? Can it affect funeral services?

An autopsy is a medical procedure performed to determine the cause of death by examining the body's organs and tissues. This examination can indeed affect funeral services, particularly in terms of timing. When an autopsy is conducted, it typically requires the body to be retained for a certain period, which can delay the preparation for and scheduling of funeral services. Therefore, understanding the implications of an autopsy is crucial for funeral professionals, as it directly influences the timing and planning of the related services.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of an autopsy or its effects on funeral proceedings. For instance, stating that an autopsy occurs before funeral services does not encompass the potential for delays that can arise. The option suggesting that an autopsy is a ritual performed during funerals misconstrues the medical purpose of the procedure, while the assertion that an autopsy has no impact on funeral services ignores the practical implications that this medical examination can have on service arrangements.