Embalming Flashcards

Which federal agency regulates formaldehyde exposure limits for funeral home workers?

Answer: OSHA

OSHA sets the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for formaldehyde at 0.75 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted average.

The 'one-point injection, one-point drainage' technique is most appropriate for:

Answer: A fresh, unautopsied adult with no vascular complications

Simple single-point injection and drainage is efficient and sufficient when the vascular system is intact and uncompromised.

In an autopsied body, organs are often returned to the cavity in a:

Answer: Viscera bag saturated with cavity fluid

A viscera bag allows the removed organs to be preserved with cavity chemicals and returned neatly to the body cavity.

Livor mortis that has become 'fixed' means:

Answer: The pooled blood has hemolyzed and stained tissue, making the discoloration permanent

Fixed livor occurs when hemolysis releases hemoglobin that diffuses into and permanently stains surrounding tissue.

Which embalming chemical classification includes buffers, surfactants, and anticoagulants?

Answer: Supplemental/co-injection chemicals

Supplemental chemicals improve fluid performance by conditioning blood, reducing surface tension, and preventing clot formation.

Surface embalming of the face using an autopsy gel or pack is indicated when:

Answer: Arterial distribution to the face is inadequate and discoloration or dehydration is present

When arterial fluid fails to reach the face properly, surface chemicals applied topically provide necessary preservation and color correction.

The term 'embalming analysis' refers to:

Answer: Assessing the condition of the body before embalming to plan the appropriate technique

Pre-embalming analysis evaluates factors like body weight, condition, cause of death, and vascular status to guide chemical selection and technique.