Definition and scope of embalming

Question 1

What is embalming?

Answer 1

Embalming is the process of chemically treating the dead human body for purposes of disinfection, preservation, and restoration before it’s final disposal

Question 2

Involves disinfecting the dead human body to prevent the spread of microorganisms, which could pose hazards to public health

Answer 2

Sanitation

Question 3

Involves the introduction of preserving solutions into the dead human body so that the funeral need not to take place immediately

Answer 3

Preservation

Question 4

Involves the repair and covering of any marks of violence or disease on portions of the body that will be exposed during viewing.

Answer 4

Restoration

Question 5

Roles of an embalmer:

Answer 5

• Public heath practitioner or sanitarian
• Preserver of the dead
• Restorer or beautifier of the dead to it’s most acceptable appearance
• Support person in times of giref and bereavement
• Aide in the detection of crime
• Educator or resource person
• Protectors of modesty and dignity of the dead
• Guarantors of respect and reverence

Question 6

Expected duties and responsibilities of an embalmer:

Answer 6

• Disinfect, preserve and restore the dead reverently and efficiently
• Perform his duties in a quiet professional manner
• Have a valid certificate of registration
• Have an updated: community tax certificate (cedula), professional tax receipt (PTR) or occupational tax receipt (OTR), and health certificate
• Attend to all procedures of embalming of remains of the body
• Ensure no parts of the remains shall be removed during embalming
• Apply all sanitary precautions in embalming of dead (remains) body
• Update their knowledge, skills and attitudes (KSA) by undergoing training conducted by Deprartment of Health (DOH)/ Accredited Trainers/Institutions/Associations
• Keep the confidentiality of the deceased
• Inform their superior in case of doubts of foul play
• *Have a thorough knowledge of Republic Act 8504 or the Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998 or AIDS Law, particularly the Universal Precautions and Confidentiality concerns

Question 7

Personality traits of an embalmer who perform successful mortuary practice:

Answer 7

• Clean and neat
• Respecful, dignified
• Sympathetic and considerate
• Efficient
• Brave
• Self-reliant
• Confident
• Optimistic, even tempered
• Willing and able to assist in the detection of crime