What situation might allow a funeral provider to embalm without prior permission?

Embalming without prior permission can occur in instances referred to as exigent circumstances. This typically means that urgent and immediate action is necessary to preserve the body under specific conditions, such as the rapid onset of decomposition, potential health hazards, or other situations where delay could interfere with the public health or safety. In these scenarios, the funeral provider may not have the time to obtain consent because the risks associated with not embalming are too great.

Circumstances that would typically lead to this type of urgent need could involve public health concerns arising from the condition of the body, where immediate actions are required to prevent any potential biohazard or to comply with health regulations.

The other options, while valid in their contexts, do not apply to situations necessitating action without prior permission. Family consent indicates that permission has been granted, and a court order presents a legal mandate that would not fall under the category of exigency, while written authorization is also a form of consent that does not apply in urgent circumstances.