Mortuary Technician Embalming and Restorative Art Flashcards

Which artery is most commonly used for primary injection in embalming?

Answer: Right common carotid artery

The right common carotid artery is most commonly used for primary injection in embalming due to its superficial location, large diameter, and direct path to the head and upper extremities. This allows for efficient distribution of embalming fluid to vital areas, ensuring effective preservation and disinfection. Its accessibility makes it a preferred site for initiating the embalming process.

What is the main purpose of cavity embalming?

Answer: Disinfect and preserve internal organs

Cavity embalming is a crucial step performed after arterial injection, focusing on the internal organs within the thoracic and abdominal cavities. It involves aspirating fluids and gases from these cavities and then injecting a strong preservative fluid (cavity fluid) to disinfect, preserve, and dry the viscera. This prevents decomposition and controls odors from the internal organs.

What is the function of a humectant in embalming fluid?

Answer: Retain tissue moisture

Humectants are a class of chemicals added to embalming fluids specifically to help tissues retain moisture and prevent dehydration. They work by drawing and holding water within the cells and interstitial spaces, which helps to maintain a more natural and pliable appearance of the body. This counteracts the dehydrating effects of other embalming chemicals.

Which restorative technique is used to rebuild facial features?

Answer: Wax restoration

Wax restoration is a restorative art technique used to rebuild, fill, or smooth facial features that may have been disfigured due to trauma, disease, or post-mortem changes. Specialized waxes are applied and sculpted to restore natural contours and expressions, making it a key method for achieving a more natural and peaceful appearance for viewing.

What is the main reason for using a trocar in embalming?

Answer: Aspiration and cavity injection

The trocar is a long, slender, hollow instrument with a sharp, pointed tip used in embalming for two primary purposes: aspiration and cavity injection. It is inserted into the body cavities to remove gases and fluids (aspiration) and then to inject cavity fluid directly into the organs to disinfect and preserve them.

What is the purpose of using a tissue builder in restorative art?

Answer: Restore natural facial contours

Tissue builder is a restorative art material, typically a liquid or gel, injected hypodermically into areas of the face or hands that have lost their natural fullness due to emaciation, disease, or trauma. Its purpose is to plump up sunken areas and restore the natural, lifelike contours of the features, improving the aesthetic presentation for viewing.