BMS Bachelor of Mortuary Science Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry Questions and Answers

Question 1

An embalmer is preparing a solution for a case exhibiting significant dehydration and emaciation. Which type of modifying agent should be prioritized in the arterial fluid mixture to help restore a more natural, hydrated appearance?

Accepted Answer

Humectants

Answer

Humectants are chemicals added to embalming solutions to retain moisture and combat dehydration. They work by adding and retaining moisture, which helps to fill out and soften tissues, making them ideal for dehydrated and emaciated cases. Buffers regulate pH, anti-edemic agents draw fluid out, and surfactants reduce surface tension for better distribution.

Question 2

What is the primary mechanism by which formaldehyde preserves tissues during embalming?

Accepted Answer

Fixing proteins by cross-linking amino groups

Answer

Formaldehyde preserves tissue by cross-linking proteins. It reacts with the primary amine groups in proteins, irreversibly connecting them to nearby nitrogen atoms. This process, known as fixation or denaturation, makes the proteins unsuitable as a nutrient source for bacteria and firms the tissue.

Question 3

An arterial fluid is labeled with an 'index' of 25. What does this number represent?

Accepted Answer

The percentage of formaldehyde gas by volume in 100mL of solution.

Answer

The 'index' of an embalming fluid refers to the percentage of pure formaldehyde gas dissolved in 100 milliliters of the solution. A higher index indicates a stronger, more potent preservative solution. For example, a 25-index fluid contains 25 grams of formaldehyde gas per 100mL of fluid.

Question 4

During arterial injection, the embalmer notices the pH of the tissues is highly acidic due to delayed embalming. Which accessory chemical is most appropriate to add to the solution to ensure optimal preservation by formaldehyde?

Accepted Answer

A buffer

Answer

Buffers are chemicals that resist changes in pH. Formaldehyde works most effectively in a slightly alkaline environment. In cases where decomposition has begun, the body's tissues become acidic. Adding a buffer to the arterial solution helps to neutralize this acidity, creating a more favorable pH for formaldehyde to react with proteins and achieve proper fixation.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of a surfactant in an embalming solution?

Accepted Answer

Adding a significant amount of preservative power

Answer

Surfactants, or surface tension reducing agents, are included in embalming fluids to lower the surface tension, which allows for better flow, penetration, and distribution of the preservative solution throughout the vascular system and into the tissues. While they are crucial for the effectiveness of the embalming process, they do not contribute directly to the preservative or fixation action in the way that aldehydes like formaldehyde do.

BMS - Bachelor of Mortuary Science Practice Test

BMS - Bachelor of Mortuary Science Practice Test

BMS Bachelor of Mortuary Science Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry Questions and Answers