Preparation of the Body for Burial


Today I have a special guest blogger, Jim Wright , who I met on this crazy A to Z blog challenge.  As a former  embalmer, he is going to explain the process of preparing a body for burial.  Here's a little bit about Jim...

As soon as practicable after death, the preparation of the body known as embalming, begins. The deceased is transported from the place of death to a preparation room in the funeral home, much like a surgical suite.

Embalming is essentially the temporary preservation of the body to allow for arrangements, transportation and viewing of the deceased’s remains. Cosmetics and, if necessary, restoration are used to complete a pleasing “memory picture” of the dead person.

Each state has various laws for the regulation of embalming. The Federal Trade Commission and funeral industry regulators have additional “laws” or rules. I will not address those in this post.

Embalming requires extensive knowledge in the disciplines of anatomy, chemistry, biology, microbiology, and pathology as well as skills in cosmetology and restorative art.

The body is placed on a stainless steel preparation table and positioned for optimal viewing. An embalming report is begun, making note of any identifying scars, wounds, tattoos, incisions, etc. The report identifies the deceased, notes any property accompanying the body and details the procedures and chemicals used. This report can be critical in the case of future litigation.

The body is then bathed and washed in a disinfectant solution. Catheters, IV needles, bandages etc are removed and the skin, mouth, eyes and other orifices are cleaned with a disinfectant. The joints are moved about and the muscles are massaged to relieve rigor mortis. If shaving is required it is done at this point to avoid razor burn.

The features are set prior to injection. Small “eye caps” with a small amount of stay cream (to deter dehydration) are placed under the lids. On occasion a bit of glue may be required to ensure complete closure of the eyes.

The mouth is closed by using a special injector gun. Afterwards, a mouth former is placed behind the lips to assist in the formation of a more natural appearance. Again, a bit of stay cream is used to prevent dehydration.

At this point, arterial injection is started. An artery, usually the carotid, is raised and a stainless steel tube inserted for the injection of the formaldehyde based fluids. Many fluids have a dye additive, giving the remains a warm, pinkish glow. As the pressure builds, the fluids are able to penetrate the vascular system, skin, muscles and organs, and restoring a more natural color to the tissues. A vein, such as the jugular is raised and a drain tube inserted. This tube is opened periodically to relieve the pressure and release the displaced blood. When the injection is complete, the tubes are removed, the vessels tied off and the incisions are sutured and sealed with a special chemical.

Following injection, cavity treatment is carried out by aspirating the hollow organs. This is accomplished by use of a trocar (a very long needle) inserted just above the navel that punctures the stomach, bladder, intestines, lungs, etc. A stronger formaldehyde cavity fluid is then introduced to complete the disinfection and preservation of the abdominal and thoracic cavities. The incision is then sutured or closed with a trocar button.The anus and vagina may be packed with cotton or gauze at this point to prevent leakage.

Once the embalming process has been completed, the body and hair are washed again. If any restoration is required, such as masking injuries or sores or rebuilding features, it will be performed at this point. Cosmetics are applied to the hands and face and the hair is arranged according to the wishes of the family. The true art of the embalmer is evident in the application of the cosmetics. Proper application will give a more life-like appearance, leaving the mourners with a pleasant and lasting memory picture. Clothing chosen or provided by the family is put on the body. This generally includes underwear, socks or stockings, and shoes. The body is then carefully placed into the casket for viewing. Any adjustments needed for clothing, hair and cosmetics are carefully made at this point.

Here's a short video from National Geographic on embalming.

So, now that you know the scoop, what do you think of embalming?  Did you know that it began during the Civil War so that bodies could be preserved on their way home?

Thanks Jim!