BMS Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry 3

Question 1

A funeral director notices that a body shows signs of tissue gas (subcutaneous emphysema). Which organism is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Clostridium perfringens

Answer

Clostridium perfringens is an anaerobic gas-producing bacterium that generates CO₂ and H₂S in tissue, causing the crepitant swelling known as tissue gas.

Question 2

What does the term 'index' (or 'strength') refer to when describing embalming fluid?

Accepted Answer

The percentage of formaldehyde in the concentrate

Answer

Index refers to the percentage of formaldehyde in the concentrated embalming fluid, not the working dilution — a 25-index fluid contains 25% formaldehyde in the stock bottle.

Question 3

During embalming, a high injection pressure is used. Which arterial complication is most likely to result?

Accepted Answer

Rupture of fragile capillaries causing ecchymosis or distension

Answer

Excessive injection pressure can rupture weakened or arteriosclerotic vessels, forcing fluid into interstitial spaces and causing swelling or purpuric discoloration.

Question 4

What is the purpose of adding anticoagulants such as EDTA to pre-injection fluids?

Accepted Answer

To chelate calcium ions and prevent blood clot formation during drainage

Answer

EDTA chelates calcium ions required for the coagulation cascade, keeping blood fluid and preventing clots that would block arterial distribution.

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why arterial embalming is less effective in cases of severe edema?

Accepted Answer

Excess interstitial fluid dilutes the embalming solution and impairs fixation

Answer

The large volume of interstitial fluid in edematous tissue dilutes the injected arterial solution, lowering effective formaldehyde concentration at the cellular level.

BMS - Bachelor of Mortuary Science Practice Test

BMS - Bachelor of Mortuary Science Practice Test

BMS Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry 3