Embalming theory 2 (FSE-212-0901): Mod 1

Double intradermal suture

Also known as a dermal layer suture and has a greater hold than a single intradermal suture; this suture has a greater hold because it is knotted at both ends. For this suture the same piece of thread is used between two needles, one at each end of the thread

Fontanelles

Areas where the neonate's or infant's skull has not fused together; usually disappear at approximately 18 months of age.

Which of the following is categorized as an extravascular irregularly shaped blood discoloration that often appears on the arms and back of the hands?

Senile Purpura

Bridge (individual) suture

This is a temporary hold and should not be used in the place of other more reliable suture methods; used to align tissue and secure them

Hypodermic embalming

This is when a hypodermic needle and syringe is used to inject preservation chemicals into the deceased. Can be used on small, localized areas or on larger areas of the body, most commonly used for areas that are not receiving enough arterial fluid. DO NOT use arterial solution in areas that are going to be visible during viewing, arterial solution can cause blotching on the skin from the dye

Interlocking (lock) suture

This suture creates a tight leak proof closure; this is because the thread is passed through the loop of the previous suture

Ketosis

When there is presence of ketones in the blood and body tissues, may also cause the a strong acetone smell in urine.

Capri pants

a plastic garment that is used to completely cover all lower extremities(hips to feet).

Disseminated intravascular coagulation

abnormal activation of the proteins involved in blood coagulation, causing small blood clots to form in vessels and cutting off the supply of oxygen to distal tissues

Hypercalcemia

an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood

At birth, the body water present in infants is approximately ____ of total body weight?

75%

Crepitation

A word used to describe the feeling of gas that becomes trapped inside the tissue of the body. (Described as feeling spongy)

Hyperglycemia

excess of sugar in the blood

Unionall

Plastic garment designed to cover the entire body from the neck down to and including the feet.

Baseball suture

This is the most common suture that is used, and it is considered to be the most secure out of suture options; it can be used for different incision lengths

Coveralls

this is a plastic garment that covers the deceased from the chest down to the upper part of the thigh.

The principal manifestations of diabetes include all of the following except:

Emaciation

Name two types of supplemental embalming techniques

Surface embalming and hypodermic embalming

Stockings

Used on the deceased after surface treatment of the legs is done, this is to prevent leakage onto surrounding areas

Surface embalming

preservation of the body tissues by direct contact with embalming chemicals

When suturing an autopsied body, the embalmer should begin suturing at the:

pubic symphysis

Cachexia

a condition of physical wasting away due to the loss of weight and muscle mass that occurs in patients with diseases such as advanced cancer or AIDS

Glycosuria

sugar in the urine

Custodial care

Also known as Periodic surveillance, this is the time after embalming has been completed when the deceased is being monitored for changes. Things that may take place during this time are readjustment of cosmetics, facial features, treat discoloration, leakage, or purge. Watching for any sign of leakage is also important, that way it can be handled and taken care of quickly

Single intradermal (hidden) suture

Considered the "hidden stitch" because it is used on exposed areas of the body and is directed through the subcutaneous tissue only. Made with one needle and one single thread.

Which document must accompany all bodies being prepared and shipped to another funeral facility?

Embalming/Decedent Care Report

Describe how an eye cap may be modified to fit beneath the eyelid of an infant

Eye caps may be trimmed with scissors to fit beneath small eyelids, cotton may also be used in place of eye caps.

Due to their small size, all infants must be embalmed using mild solutions and low-index arterial solutions? True or False?

False

Continuous (whip) suture

For temporary closure of longer incisions, will have a visible elevation where the suture is placed and the possibility of fluid leaking from the area. Commonly used after organ donation and autopsy before the deceased is sent to the funeral home

Tissue gas

Gas that accumulates in the tissue or cavities of the deceased, brought on by clostridium perfringens.

Which of the following medical devices must be removed prior to cremation?

Pacemaker

Define the various age categories

Preterm: live birth before 37 weeks, Stillborn: death occurs before or during delivery, Infant: birth to 18 months, Toddler: 18 to 48 months, Child: 4 to 12 years, Adolescent: 12 to 18 years, Young Adult: 18 to 25 years, Adult: 25 years to mid-seventies, and Advanced: Mid-seventies and beyond

I have finished embalming a decedent that has an exposed stoma due to a colostomy. Which suture method would be effective in closing the exposed area of the stoma?

Purse String Suture

Inversion (worm) suture

Suture is not visible and may be waxed as needed. It is an excellant suture for forclosing a carotid incision or closing the scalp on the cranial autopsy. This suture is made when the thread and needle turn under extra tissue of the deceased; leaving a flat closure, with no ridge unlike other suture methods

Explain why the careful handling of hands with senile purpura is important.

The carful handling of hands with senile purpura is important because they can easily tear. This condition causes bruising on the skin and discoloration, during arterial injection these areas can become engorged with fluid and swell. Once this happens the skin has been known to separate from the underlying tissue.

Terminal disinfection

The disinfection process that happens after the embalming process has finished. This is the clean up and disinfection of the pre-room surfaces, to include the floor, counter space, cabinets, mortuary equipment, etc.

What are several areas of the autopsied body treated by supplemental embalming methods?

The trunk walls of autopsied bodies and a limb that may not be receiving sufficient arterial fluids.

Accessory chemicals

These are chemicals that are made and used for surface embalming. Comes in many states, like creams, gels, and liquids. These chemicals are made to help preserve, dry, bleach, cauterize, and deodorize the tissue of the deceased

Super adhesive glues and bonding agents can be used for some closures instead of traditional sutures? True or False?

True

This plastic garment is ideal for autopsy cases, as it covers the entire body with the exception of the neck and head.

Unionall

Gathering forceps

an instrument with curved, sharp teeth used to hold sections of tissue in place for suturing (e.g. autopsy or organ procurement incisions)

Anemia

when there is a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body, causing a reduction of oxygen that is going to organs. Some side effects that may occur are weakness, tiredness, pale skin, and faster heartbeat.

Explain how strength and volume of embalming solution differs in children compared to adults

According to page 243 in our book, strength and volume is determined by the condition of the body when it comes to children. This is because their tissue is more delicate than adults, a medium-index fluid within the 18-25 index range is highly suggested. Children do require a smaller volume of fluid than adults.