Introduction:
The earliest recorded instances of embalming date back to ancient Egypt, around 2600 before Christ. Embalming is chemically treating a deceased person's body to delay decomposition and preserve it for viewing, burial, or cremation. This is typically performed by a licensed mortician or funeral director. The process involves removing body fluids, preserving the body with preservatives, and restoring the deceased's appearance.
How Is the Embalming Procedure Performed?
The embalmer will start by cleaning and disinfecting the work area, including the embalming table and equipment. They will then prepare their tools, such as scalpels, needles, tubes, and gowns in protective clothing. The general embalming procedure is performed in four steps.
1. Arterial Embalming:
- Access - The embalmer will make an incision to access the major blood vessels, usually on the right side of the deceased's abdomen.
2. Cavity Embalming:
- Drainage - The embalmer will use a pump or gravity to drain the deceased's body fluids and replace them with a mixture of embalming fluid and water. This fluid helps temporarily slow down the decomposition process and restore a lifelike appearance to the body.
3. Hypodermic Embalming:
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Injection: The embalming fluid is injected into the deceased's arteries, distributing it throughout the body. This process may take thirty minutes to an hour, and the embalmer will adjust the amount of fluid and pressure as needed.
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Cavity Treatment: The embalmer will treat the body's cavity by applying a disinfectant and deodorant to the organs and replacing any gasses that may have accumulated.
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Restoration: Once the injection and cavity treatment is complete, the embalmer will use makeup, wigs, and other techniques to restore the deceased's appearance and make them presentable for viewing.
4. Surface Embalming:
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Dressing and Preparation: Finally, the embalmer will dress the deceased in their choice and prepare them for viewing or burial. This may involve placing them in a casket and adding additional personal touches.
Embalming is a skilled trade requiring specialized training and anatomy, pathology, and chemistry knowledge. The process can vary depending on the individual, the cause of death, and the desired result. Still, the goal is always to provide a respectful and dignified presentation of the deceased.
What Chemicals Are Used for the Embalming Procedure?
Formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, methanol, and other solvents are commonly present in embalming fluid. Methanol percentages can range from ten to fifty-seven percent, whereas formaldehyde content normally falls between five and thirty eight-percent.
What Is the Importance of the Embalming Procedure?
The importance of embalming can be seen from several perspectives:
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Hygienic: Embalming helps prevent disease by killing any remaining bacteria or pathogens in the body and preserving it.
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Cultural: In many cultures, embalming is important in honoring the deceased and preparing them for a funeral or memorial service.
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Legal: In some cases, embalming is required before a body can be transported across state lines or before a funeral service.
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Aesthetic: Embalming can help to restore a more natural appearance to a body that has undergone physical trauma or has been decomposing for some time, making it easier for families to view and say goodbye to their loved ones.
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Scientific: Embalming can also be important for scientific purposes, such as investigating a crime or medical research.
Overall, the embalming procedure plays a crucial role in preserving the dignity of the deceased and protecting public health. Furthermore, it allows families to bid farewell to their loved ones meaningfully and respectfully and provides an opportunity for closure during a difficult time.
How Long Does It Take for the Embalming Procedure?
The time required for an embalming procedure can vary, but it typically takes two to four hours. The exact duration depends on several factors, such as the size of the body, the cause of death, and the desired outcome for viewing or funeral purposes.
How Long Does the Embalming Procedure Stop Decomposition of the Body?
The duration of embalming depends on several factors, including the environment and the storage conditions, but typically the effects of embalming can last from several days to several weeks. However, it is important to note that embalming does not prevent the eventual decomposition of the body, and it is not a permanent solution for preserving a body.
Is the Embalming Procedure Necessary Before the Cremation Procedure?
No, embalming is not required and has not been mandated by the law for cremation. Therefore, embalming is not required for cremations or funerals. However, embalming is necessary if the funeral includes the wake and viewing before cremation.
What Are the Hazards of the Embalming Procedure?
When embalming, formaldehyde exposure for embalmers can reach up to nine parts per million (ppm). Short-term exposures to this pungent gas can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat at concentrations as high as five ppm (parts per million). The symptoms range from coughing, chest tightness, and an abnormal heartbeat at levels between 10 and 20 ppm to fluid in the lungs, followed by death at values between 50 and 100 ppm. In addition, cancer may potentially develop as a result of prolonged formaldehyde exposure.
What Are the Other Alternatives to the Embalming Procedure?
For individuals who desire to preserve the departed's body for a limited period, embalming is a tried-and-tested approach. There are other ways to accomplish the same thing. They consist of using dry ice or freezing the body. These slow down the body's rapid decomposition in a more environmentally friendly way. A quick burial is the best option to save money and the environment.
Conclusion:
Embalming preserves a body by postponing death's natural consequences. This is accomplished by injecting specialized embalming fluids into the body after death to give the deceased a more serene appearance. Families should know their options and what will serve the deceased's interests best. It provides them an opportunity for a fitting send-off and aids them in their grief. Making a list of what must be done after one passes away will help the family members get closure and make peace with the changed situation.
