In the absence of the attending physician, who can complete and sign the death certificate?

The designated physician is authorized to complete and sign a death certificate in the absence of the attending physician. This role is critical because it ensures that there is a responsible medical professional available to oversee and document the cause of death in a timely manner. The designated physician typically has the necessary training and credentials to perform this task, making them a reliable alternative when the attending physician is unavailable.

This choice underscores the importance of continuity in medical oversight and documentation during end-of-life procedures. By designating a physician to fulfill this responsibility, it helps maintain the integrity of the death certification process, providing a legal and medical record that is necessary for various administrative and legal purposes.

In contrast, other roles mentioned, such as a chief medical officer, registered nurse, and medical examiner, may each have specific responsibilities but do not possess the direct authority or the appropriate legal standing to finalize a death certificate in the absence of the attending physician.