Embalming Techniques & Protocols Flashcards

What is the purpose of 'pre-injection' fluid used before the primary arterial embalming solution?

Answer: To flush blood, dilate vessels, and condition tissues for preservative uptake

Pre-injection fluids clear the vascular system of blood clots, dilate capillaries, and condition tissues to allow more even and thorough distribution of the preservative solution that follows.

When embalming an autopsied body, which technique is used to ensure preservation of organs that have been removed and replaced?

Answer: Paint organs with undiluted cavity fluid and wrap in saturated gauze before replacement

Viscera removed during autopsy should be coated with undiluted cavity fluid and wrapped in gauze saturated with preservative before being returned to the body cavities.

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

Answer: The formaldehyde content measured as a percentage of the concentrate

The index of an arterial fluid refers to its formaldehyde (HCHO) content expressed as a percentage, which determines the preservative strength of the concentrate.

A body presents with extreme edema (waterlogged tissues). Which modification to standard embalming protocol best addresses this condition?

Answer: Use a high-index fluid with a dehydrating co-injection at restricted water dilution

Edematous cases require a high-index (high preservative) fluid with minimal water added and a dehydrating co-injection chemical to help draw excess moisture out of waterlogged tissues.

Which term describes the movement of embalming fluid from the vascular system into surrounding interstitial tissues?

Answer: Perfusion

Perfusion refers specifically to the passage of embalming fluid from the capillaries into the surrounding tissue cells and interstitial spaces to achieve preservation.

What is the primary reason a mortuary technician might use restricted cervical injection rather than a standard single-point injection?

Answer: To allow independent control of head and body embalming when circulation is compromised

Restricted cervical injection isolates the head's circulation so that injection pressure and fluid concentration can be adjusted independently for the cranial region versus the rest of the body.

Which instrument is used to create a channel through tissue to reach remote or difficult-to-distribute areas during embalming?

Answer: Hypodermic trocar

A hypodermic trocar is used to inject preservative solution hypodermically into areas such as the face, hands, or feet that did not receive adequate arterial distribution.