CMT Mortuary Science & Procedures 5

Question 1

When performing embalming on a body with a pacemaker, what is the primary concern?

Accepted Answer

Pacemakers may explode during cremation if not removed

Answer

Pacemakers and other implanted electronic devices can explode when subjected to the extreme heat of cremation, requiring removal before cremation proceeds.

Question 2

Which suture technique is most commonly used to close incisions made during embalming?

Accepted Answer

Baseball suture

Answer

The baseball suture (also called the worm suture) is commonly used in embalming to close incisions because it creates a tight, leak-resistant closure.

Question 3

What is the term for the instrument used to aspirate gases and liquids from body cavities during embalming?

Accepted Answer

Trocar

Answer

A trocar is the long, hollow, pointed instrument connected to an aspirator that is used to puncture and aspirate the contents of body cavities.

Question 4

Which type of drainage is considered most effective for removing blood during arterial embalming?

Accepted Answer

Intermittent drainage

Answer

Intermittent drainage, where drainage is periodically stopped and restarted, is generally considered most effective because it allows better fluid distribution and prevents premature drainage of injected chemicals.

Question 5

What is 'saponification' in the context of postmortem changes?

Accepted Answer

Formation of a waxy soap-like substance from body fat (adipocere)

Answer

Saponification (adipocere formation) is the conversion of body fat into a grayish-white, waxy, soap-like substance under moist anaerobic conditions.

(CMT) Certified Mortuary Technician Practice Test

(CMT) Certified Mortuary Technician Practice Test

CMT Mortuary Science & Procedures 5