Embalming and Restorative Arts Flashcards

What does the term 'index' refer to when applied to arterial embalming chemicals?

Answer: The percentage of formaldehyde or preservative chemical in the concentrated fluid

The index of an arterial fluid refers to the percentage of formaldehyde (or equivalent preservative) in the concentrated solution before dilution.

Which restorative technique is used to close and seal the mouth when suturing is not desired?

Answer: Mouth former with needle injector wires through the maxilla and mandible

A needle injector drives barbed wires into the maxilla and mandible, anchoring them and holding the mouth closed without visible suturing.

Purge during embalming most commonly originates from:

Answer: Stomach and lungs due to gas pressure or incomplete aspiration

Purge is the expulsion of gas, fluid, or decomposition matter from the nose or mouth, most commonly originating from stomach or lung contents under gas pressure.

A body with severe trauma to the right side of the face would be best positioned in the casket with:

Answer: Right side turned slightly away from viewers to present the less-damaged left profile

Rotating the casket presentation so the undamaged side faces viewers minimizes visibility of trauma while still allowing viewing.

The primary function of a humectant in an embalming fluid is to:

Answer: Retain moisture in tissues to prevent dehydration and wrinkling

Humectants such as glycerin attract and retain water in embalmed tissues, helping prevent excessive dehydration and maintaining a natural skin appearance.

Which artery is the most commonly used primary injection site for routine embalming?

Answer: Right common carotid artery

The right common carotid artery is the most frequently selected primary injection site because it is accessible, large, and allows excellent head and facial distribution.

When is hypodermic embalming most indicated?

Answer: When areas are inaccessible to arterial distribution, such as localized sclerosis or trauma

Hypodermic injection of embalming chemicals directly into tissues is used when arterial distribution cannot reach specific areas due to blockage, trauma, or vascular damage.