Embalming: Glossary Flashcards
Nine region plan: by means of four imaginary planes, two of which are horizontal (indicated by lines drawn across the right and left 10” ribs and across the right and left anterior superior iliac spines) and two sagittal (indicated by lines drawn from mid point of inguinal ligament to nipples of chest, right and left sides)
Abdominal anatomical regions
Abdominal anatomical regions: upper row
- Right hypochondriac
- Epigastric
- Left hypochondriac
Abdominal anatomical regions: middle row
- Right lumbar
- Umbilical
- Left lumbar
Abdominal anatomical regions: lower row
- Right inguinal (iliac)
- Hypogastric
- Left inguinal (iliac)
Four region plan: by means of two imaginary planes, one horizontal and the other mid-sagittal
Abdominal anatomical regions
Abdominal anatomical regions: four region plan
- Upper right quadrant
- Upper left quadrant
- Lower right quadrant
- Lower left quadrant
Antemortem injuries resulting from friction of the skin against a firm object resulting in the removal of the epidermis
Abrasion
To touch or contact, as with the tarsal plates of the closed eyelids
Abut
Group of chemicals used in addition to vascular (arterial) and cavity embalming fluids
Accessory chemicals
Includes, but is not limited to hardening compounds, preservative powders, sealing agents, mold preventative agents, and pack application agents
Accessory chemicals
A specific group of diseases or conditions which are indicative of severe immunosuppression related to infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
Persons dead may exhibit conditions such as wasting syndrome, extrapulmonary tuberculosis, and Kaposi’s sarcoma
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
These levels are established to ensure adequate protection of employees at exposures below the OSHA limits, but to minimize the compliance burdens for employers whose employees have exposures below the 8-hour permissible exposure limit (PEL)
- Action level
* AL exposure limits
For formaldehyde is 0.5 ppm
- Action level
That pressure which is indicated by the injector gauge needle when the arterial tube is open and the arterial solution is flowing into the body
Actual pressure
A wax-like material produced by saponification of body fat in a body buried in alkaline soil
- Adipocere
* Grave wax
In the presence of free oxygen
Aerobic
To disperse as an aerosol
Aerosolization
Minute particles of blood and water become atomized and suspended in air when water under pressure meets the blood drainage or when flushing an undercover flush sink
Aerosolization
Intravascular, the increase of viscosity of blood brought about by the clumping of particulate formed elements in the blood vessels
- Agglutination
* Congealing
Decrease in body temperature immediately before death
Agonal algor
In reference to blood, a change from a fluid into a thickened mass
- Agonal coagulation
* Congealing
The loss of moisture from the living body during the agonal state
Agonal dehydration
Escape of blood serum from an intravascular to an extravascular location immediately before death
Agonal edema
Increase in body temperature immediately before death
Agonal fever
Period immediately before somatic death
Agonal period
Post mortem cooling of the body to the surrounding temperature
Algor mortis
Method of injection-drainage in which embalming solution is injected and then injection is stopped while drainage is open
Alternate drainage (restricted drainage)
An organization of professional personnel in governmental agencies or educational institutions who are employed in occupational safety and health programs
American Congress of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
The building blocks of proteins
Amino acid
The end products of protein digestion or hydrolysis
Amino acid
A compound containing an amino group, a carboxyl group attached to an alpha carbon and a radical
Amino acid
Amino group
-NH2
Carboxyl group
-COOH
In the absence of free oxygen
Anaerobic
Generalized massive edema in subcutaneous tissue
Anasarca
A descriptive reference for locating arteries and veins by means of anatomical structures which are known
Anatomical guide
Points of origin and points of termination in relation to adjacent structures
Anatomical limits
Used to designate the boundaries of arteries
Anatomical limits
The body is erect, feet together, palms facing forward, and thumbs pointed away from the body
Anatomical position
Localized abnormal dilation or outpocketing of a blood vessel resulting from a congenital defect or a weakness of a vessel wall
Aneurysm
An embalming instrument used for blunt dissection and in raising vessels
Aneurysm hook
Has an eye in the hook position of the instrument for placing ligatures around the vessels
Aneurysm hook
An embalming instrument that is used for blunt dissection and in raising vessels, which has an eye in the hook portion of the instrument for placing ligatures around the vessels
Aneurysm needle
A multipurpose instrument used in the embalming process
Angular spring forceps
Deviation from the normal
Anomalies
In front of the elbow
Antecubital
In the bend of the elbow
Antecubital
Before death
Antemortem
Toward the front
Anterior
A bony protuberance, that can be palpated topographically, found on the ilium, the superior, broad portion of the hipbone
Anterior superior iliac spine
The origin of the inguinal ligament and the sartorius muscle
Anterior superior iliac spine
Ingredient of embalming fluids that retards the natural postmortem tendency of blood to become more viscous or prevents adverse reactions between blood and other embalming chemicals
Anticoagulant fluid
Condition in which the manifestations of life are feebly maintained
Apparent death
The concentrated, preservative, embalming chemical that will be diluted with water to form the arterial solution for injection into the arterial system during vascular embalming
- Arterial fluid
* Vascular fluid
The purpose is for inactivating saprophytic bacteria and rendering the body tissues less susceptible to decomposition
- Arterial fluid
* Vascular fluid
The mixture of arterial (vascular) fluid and water which is used for the arterial injection and may include supplemental fluids
Arterial solution
A tube used to inject embalming fluid into the blood vascular system
Arterial tube
Disease of the arteries resulting in thickening, hardening, and loss of elasticity of the arterial walls
Arteriosclerosis
Place of union between two or more bones
Articulation
Accumulation of serous fluids in the peritoneal cavity
Ascites
Freedom from infection and from any form of life
Asepsis
Sterility
Asepsis
Insufficient intake of oxygen resulting from any of numerous causes
Asphyxia
Withdrawal of gas, fluids, and semi-solids from body cavities and hollow viscera by means of suction with an aspirator and a trocar
Aspiration
Fatty degeneration or thickening of the walls of the larger arteries occurring in ahterosclerosis
Atheroma
Apparatus used for sterilization by steam pressure, usually at 250 degrees Fahrenheit / 121 degrees Celsius for a specific time
Autoclave
Self-destruction of cells
Autolysis
Decomposition of all tissues by enzymes of their own formation without microbial assistance
Autolysis
The body’s own digestive enzymes that are capable of destroying body cells
Autolytic enzyme
Body’s own digestive enzymes that are capable of destroying body cells
Autolytic decomposition
A postmortem examination of the organs and tissues of a body to determine cause of death or pathological condition
- Autopsy
* Postmortem examination
Agent that destroys bacteria
Bactericidal agent
Agent that has the ability to inhibit or retard bacterial growth
Bacteriostatic agent
No destruction of viability of the microorganism is implied
Bacteriostatic agent
Resins combined with oil
Balsamic substance
A fragrant, resinous, oily exudate from various trees and plants
Balsamic substance
Base of the axillary space
Armpit
Biological agent or condition that constitutes a hazard to humans
Biohazard
Bloodborne pathogens, blood or body fluids exposure, any potentially infective, contaminated waste associated with the preparation of human remains that constitutes a hazard to humans in the workplace
- Biohazardous waste
* Infectious waste
Irreversible somatic death
Biological death
A carcinogen potentially produced when formaldehyde and sodium hypochlorite come into contact with each other
Bischloromethyl ether (BCME)
Normally occurs only in a controlled laboratory setting and requires a catalyst
Bischloromethyl ether (BCME)
A chemical that lightens a skin discoloration
Bleaching agent
Cell-containing fluid that circulates through the blood vascular system and is compposed of approximately 22% solids and 78% water
Blood
Discolorations resulting from change in blood composition, content, or location, either intravascularly or extravascularly
Blood discoloration
The pressure exerted by the blood in the living body on the arterial wall measured in millimeters of mercury
Blood pressure
Circulatory network composed of the heart, arteries, arterioles, capillaries, venules, and veins
Blood vascular system
OSHA Regulation (29CFR 1910-1030) regulating the employee’s exposure to blood and other body fluids
Bloodborne Pathogen Rule
Blood, human blood, human blood components, and products made from human blood
Bloodborne pathogens (OSHA definition)
Pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans
Bloodborne pathogens
Include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Bloodborne pathogens
The separation and pushing aside of the superficial fascia leading to blood vessels and then the deep fascia surrounding blood vessels, utilizing manual techniques or round-ended instruments which separate rather than cut the protective tissues
Blunt dissection
Acute, deep-seated inflammation in the skin, which usually begins as a subcutaneous swelling in a hair follicle
- Boil
* Furuncle
A temporary suture consisting of individually cut and tied stitched employed to sustain the proper position of tissues
- Bridge suture
* Interrupted suture
Vestibule of the oral cavity
Buccal cavity
The space between the lips, gums, and teeth
Buccal cavity
Self-contained, soft rubber manual pump designed to create pressure to deliver fluid as it passes through one-way valves located within the bulb
Bulb syringe
Used only to deliver fluids
Bulb syringe
Cannot be used for aspiration
Bulb syringe
Substances that in solution are capable of neutralizing, within limits, both acids and bases and thereby maintaining the original, or constant, pH, of the solution
Buffers
Dead human body used for medical purposes
Cadaver
Includes transplantation, anatomical dissection and study
Cadaver
A prolongation of the last violent contraction of the muscle into the rigidity of death
Cadaveric spasm
The dome-like superior portion of the cranium
Calvarium
That portion removed during cranial autopsy
Calvarium
A device used as a means of fastening the calvarium after a cranial autopsy
Calvarium clamp
Formation of new channels in a tissue
Canalization
Minute blood vessels, the walls of which comprise a single layer of endothelial cells
Capillaries
Connect the arterioles with the venules and are where pressure filtration occurs
Capillaries
Smallest arteries
Arterioles
Smallest veins
Venules
Ability of substances to diffuse through capillary walls into the tissue spaces
Capillary permeability
A compound of hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen that is an aldehyde or ketone derivative of polyhydroxyl alcohol
Carbohydrate
Examples: sugars, starches, and glycogen
Carbohydrate
Circumscribed inflammation of the skin and deeper tissues that ends in suppuration and is accompanied by systemic symptoms, such as fever and leukocytosis
Carbuncle
A cancer-causing chemical or material
- Carcinogen
* Carcinogenicity
The formation of cavities in an organ or tissue
Cavitation
Frequently seen in some forms of tuberculosis
Cavitation
Direct treatment, other than vascular (arterial) injection, of the contents of the body cavities and the lumina of the hollow viscera
Cavity embalming
Usually accomplished by aspiration and injection of chemicals using a trocar
Cavity embalming
Embalming chemicals which are injected into the cavities of the body following the aspiration in cavity embalming
Cavity fluid
Can be used as the chemical in hypodermic and surface embalming
Cavity fluid
Death of the individual cells of the body
Cellular death
Ascending aorta and / or arch of the aorta
Center of fluid distribution
Right atrium of the heart
Center of venous drainage
Embalming machine that uses an electrical pump to create pressure, either pulsating or non-pulsating
Centrifugal force machine
A major agency of the Department of Health and Human Services, with headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, concerned with all phases of control of communicable, vector-borne, and occupational diseases
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (DCDP)
* CDC
Substances that bind metallic ions such as EDTA (Ethylenediamine-tetracetic acid)
Chelate
Used as an anticoagulant in embalming solutions
Chelate
Change in the body’s chemical composition that occurs after death
Chemical postmortem change
Example: Release of heme leading to postmortem staining
Chemical postmortem change
The application of chemical reagents in the treatment of disease in man, using an elevated preservation demand
- Chemotherapy
* Chemotherapeutic agents
A phase of somatic death lasting from five to six minutes in which life may be restored
Clinical death
Drainage procedure that limits the exposure of the embalmer to the drainage
Closed system drainage
Tubing is attached to a drain tube allowing drainage to flow directly from a vein into a sanitary disposal system
Closed system drainage
Tubing may also be attached to a trocar and aspirator allowing drainage to be taken from the right atrium of the heart to the sanitary disposal system
Closed system drainage
Chemical and physical agents that bring about coagulation
Coagulation agents
A fluid used primarily to supplement and enhance the action of vascular (arterial) solutions
Co-injection fluid
Mode of somatic death
Coma
Death beginning at the brain
Coma
Disease that may be transmitted either directly or indirectly between individuals by an infectious agent
Communicable disease
Disinfection practices carried out during the embalming process
Concurrent disinfection
Method of drainage in which drainage occurs continuously during vascular (arterial) injection
Concurrent drainage
Rounded articular process on a bone
Condyle
The process of converting soluble protein to insoluble protein by heating or by contact with a chemical such as an alcohol or an aldehyde
Congealing
Mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white portion of the eye
Conjunctiva
Disease that may be transmitted between individuals, with reference to the organism that causes a disease
Contagious disease
The presence or the reasonably anticipated presence of blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface
Contaminated
Laundry that has been soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials or may contain sharps
Contaminated laundry
Any contaminated object that can penetrate the skin
Contaminated sharps
Examples: Needles, scalpels, broken glass, and exposed ends of wires
Contaminated sharps
Transparent part of the tunic of the eyeball that covers the iris and pupil and admits light into the interior
Cornea
That portion of the cornea recovered for transplantation in situ
Corneal sclera button
An official of a local community who holds inquests concerning sudden, violent, and unexplained deaths
Coroner
Having an abnormal amount of fat on the body
- Corpulance
* Obesity
Embalming fluid that contains dyes and coloring agents intended to restore a more natural skin tone through the embalming process
Cosmetic fluid
Dye that helps to cover internal discolorations such as jaundice
Counter staining compound
Plastic garment designed to cover the body from the chest down to the upper right
Coverall
Method used to embalm the contents of the cranial cavity through aspiration and injection of the cranial chamber by passage of a trocar through the cribriform plate
Cranial embalming
Those elements remaining after cremation of a dead human body
Cremated remains
Crackling sensation produced when gases trapped in tissues are palpated, as in subcutaneous emphysema
Crepitation
Disease of the central nervous system with unknown etiology assumed to be caused by a prion
Creutzfeld-Jakob Disease (CJD)
Thin, medial portion of the ethmoid bone of the skull
Cribriform plate
Irreversible cessation of all vital functions (non-legal definition)
Death
Noise made by a moribund person caused by air passing through a residue of mucous in the trachea and posterior oral cavity
Death rattle
The semi-convulsive twitches which often occur before death
Death struggle
Decomposition of proteins by enzymes of aerobic bacteria
Decay
Separation of compounds into simpler substances by the action of microbial and / or autolytic enzymes
Decomposition
Loss of moisture from the body tissue which may occur antemortem or postmortem the removal of water from a substance
Dehydration
A protein whose structure has been changed by physical or chemical agents
Denatured protein
Rendered thoroughly dry
Desiccation
Exhausted of moisture
Desiccation
Areas of embalmed tissue where excessive dehydration has occurred
Desiccation marks
Sloughing off of the epidermis, wherein there is a separation of the epidermis from the underlying dermis
- Desquamation
* Skin slip
Separation of substances in solution by the difference in their rating of diffusion through a semi-permeable membrane
Dialysis
The difference between potential and actual pressure
Differential pressure
Movement of molecules or other particles in solution from an area of greater concentration to an area of lesser concentration until uniform concentration is reached
Diffusion
Passage of some components of the injected embalming solution from an intravascular to an extravascular location
Diffusion (arterial solution)
Movement of the embalming solutions from the capillaries into the interstitial fluids
Diffusion (arterial solution)
Finger and toes
Digits
Number one digit for each hand
Thumb
Number one digit for each foot
Large toe
Any abnormal color in or upon the human body
Discoloration
Any deviation from or interruption of the normal structure or function of a body part, organ, or system
Disease
An agent, usually chemical, applied to inanimate objects / surfaces to destroy disease-causing microbial agents, but usually not bacterial spores
Disinfecant
The destruction and / or inhibition of most pathogenic organisms and their products in or on the body
Disinfection
The movement of embalming solutions from the point of injection throughout the arterial system and into the capillaries
Distribution (fluid)
Embalming instrument, inserted into a vein, used to aid the drainage of venous blood from the body
Drain tubes
Discharge or withdrawal of blood, blood clots, interstitial and lymphatic fluid, and embalming solution from the body during vascular embalming, usually through a vein
Drainage
OSHA-required safety device for a release of a copious amount of water in a short time
Drench shower
A condition that results when the body part that dies had little blood and remains aseptic
Dry gangrene
Occurs when the arteries but not the veins are obstructed
Dry gangrene
Substances which will, upon being dissolved, impart a definite color to the embalming solution
- Dye
* Coloring agent
Classified as to their capacity to permanently impart color to the tissue of the body into which they are injected
- Dye
* Coloring agent
Discoloration of the skin caused by the escape of blood within the tissues
- Ecchymosis
* Bruise
Generally accompanied by swelling
- Ecchymosis
* Bruise
Record of the electrical activity of the heart
- Electrocardiogram (ECG / EKG)
Abnormal accumulation of fluids in tissue or body cavities
Edema
A record of the electrical activity of the brain
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
A device that uses a motor to create suction for the purpose of aspiration
Electric aspirator
An electrically heated blade that may be used to dry moist tissue, reduce swollen tissue, and restore contour
Electric spatula
Process of chemically treating the dead human body to reduce the presence and growth of microorganisms, to temporarily inhibit organic decomposition, and to restore an acceptable physical appearance
Embalming
Number of types of embalming
Four
Report filled out for each body prepared and for each body received from another funeral home
- Embalming report
* Case report
That consideration given to the dead body prior to, during, and after the embalming procedure is completed
- Embalming analysis
* Case analysis
Documentation is recommended
- Embalming analysis
* Case analysis
Mechanical systems and devices engineered into the architecture of a building
Engineering controls
Examples: Exhaust systems, sanitary plumbing
Engineering controls
The surroundings, conditions, or influences that affect an organism or the cells within an organism
Environment
A governmental agency with environmental protection regulatory and enforcement authority
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Organic catalyst produced by living cells and capable of autolytic decomposition
Enzyme
A protein that acts as a biological catalyst
Enzyme
To remove as by cutting out
Excision
The area from which tissue has been removed
Excision
Any procedure used to prove a sign of death usually performed by medical personnel
Expert tests of death
A specific eye, mouth, other mucous membrane, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that results from the performance of an employee’s duties
Exposure incident
Reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that may result from the performance of an employee’s duties
Exposure, occupational
Outside the blood vascular system
Extravascular
Discoloration of the body outside the blood vascular system
Extravascular blood discoloration
Examples: Ecchymosis, petechial, hematoma, and postmortem stain
Extravascular blood discoloration
Excess loss of blood
Exsanguination
From outside the body
Extrinsic
Removal of the eye for tissue transplantation, research, or education
Eye enucleation
Extravasation of blood as a result of eye enucleation
Eye enucleation discoloration
OSHA-required emergency safety device providing a steady stream of water for flushing the eye
Eye wash station
A thin, dome-like shell made of hardened cloth, metal, or plastic place beneath eyelids to restore natural curvature and to maintain the position of posed eyelids
Eyecap
A common name for a triglyceride ester that is a semisolid or solid at room temperature and contains a high percentage of saturated fatty acids
Fat
A product of decomposition of fats
Fatty acids
Characterized by a high fever, causing dehydration of the body
Fatty acids
Characterized by a high fever, causing dehydration of the body
Febrile
Agency of federal government created in 1914 to promote free and fair competition by prevention of trade restraints, price fixing, false advertising and other unfair methods of competition
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Bacterial decomposition of carbohydrates
Fermentation
Lesions of the mucous membrane of the lip or mouth usually caused by Herpes Simplex Type I or II virus or by dehydration of the mucous membrane in a febrile disease
Fever blisters
Rigidity of tissue due to chemical reaction
Firming
The act of making tissue rigid
Fixation
The solidification of a compound
Fixation
An agent employed in the preparation of tissues, for the purpose of maintaining the existing form and structure
Fixative
The most important agent being used in a fixative
Formalin
Colorless, strong-smelling gas that when used in solution is a powerful preservative and disinfectant
Formaldehyde (HCHO)
A potential occupational carcinogen
Formaldehyde (HCHO)
Grey discoloration of the body caused by the reaction of formaldehyde from the embalming process with hemoglobin to form methylhemoglobin
Formaldehyde grey
OSHA regulation limiting the amount of occupational exposure to formaldehyde gas
Formaldehyde rule
Necrosis, death of tissues of part of the body, usually due to deficient or absent blood supply
Gangrene
Condition that results when the body part that dies had little blood and remains aseptic
Dry gangrene
Occurs when the arteries but not the veins are obstructed
Dry gangrene
Necrotic tissue that is wet as a result if inadequate venous drainage
Moist (wet) gangrene
May be accompanied by the invasion of saprophytic bacteria
Moist (wet) gangrene
Necrosis in a wound infected by an anaerobic gas-forming bacillus, the most common etiologic agent being Clostridium perfringens
Gas gangrene
Extravascular movement of preservative fluids by gravitational force to the dependent areas of the body
Gravity filtration
Apparatus used to inject arterial fluid during the vascular (arterial) phase of the embalming process
Gravity injector
Relies on gravity to create the pressure required to deliver the fluid
Gravity injector
Pressure required to deliver the fluid in a gravity injector
.43 pounds of pressure per one foot of elevation
Instrument used to guide vein tubes into vessels
Groove director
Historical instrument resembling a large hypodermic syringe attached to a bottle apparatus
Hand pump
Used to create either pressure for injection or vacuum for aspiration
Hand pump
Water containing large amounts of mineral salts
Hard water
Mineral salts must be removed from or sequestered in water (vehicle) to be used in mixing vascular embalming solutions
Hard water
Chemical in powder form that has the ability to absorb and to disinfect
Hardening compound
Often used in cavity treatment of autopsied cases
Hardening compound
OSHA regulation that deals with identifying and limiting exposure in occupational hazards
Hazard Communication Standard / Rule
An agent or material exposing one to risk
Hazardous material
Piece of equipment used to maintain the head in the proper position during the embalming process
Head rest
Blood present in vomitus
Hematemesis
Vomiting of blood
Hematemesis
A swelling or mass of clotted blood confined to an organ or space caused by a ruptured blood vessel
Hematoma
The non-protein portion of hemoglobin
Heme
The red pigment of hemoglobin
Heme
The red respiratory portions of the red blood cells
Hemoglobin
Iron containing pigment of red blood cells functioning to carry oxygen to the cells
Hemoglobin
Destruction of red blood cells that liberates hemoglobin
Hemolysis
Inflammation of the liver
Hepatitis
It may be caused by a variety of agents, including viral infections, bacterial invasion, and physical or chemical agents
Hepatitis
Fever, jaundice, and an enlarged liver usually accompany it
Hepatitis
A sever infectious bloodborne virus
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
An inflammatory skin disease marked by small vesicles in clusters
Herpes
Special vascular (arterial) fluid with an HCHO content of 25 to 36 percent
High preservation demand fluids
A 5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution
Household bleach
Yields one gallon of a 10% household bleach solution
Twelve ounces of household bleach with 116 ounces of water
10% household bleach solution
5,000 ppm sodium hypochlorite
A type of retrovirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Body of a deceased person, including cremated remains
Human remains
Chemical that increases the ability of embalmed tissue to retain moisture
Humectant
Apparatus that is connected to the water supply
Hydroaspirator
When the water is turned on, suction is developed and is used to aspirate the contents of the body’s cavities
Hydroaspirator
Abnormal accumulation of fluids in a saclike structure in any sacculated cavity in the body, especially the scrotal sac
Hydrocele
Abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluids in the ventricles of the brain
Hydrocephalus
Reaction in which water is one of the reactants and compounds are often broken down
Hydrolysis
The addition of water accompanied by the action of enzymes results in the breakdown of protein into amino acids
Hydrolysis of proteins
Abnormal accumulation of fluid within the pericardial sac
Hydropericardium
Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the thoracic cavity
Hydrothorax
Absorbing moisture readily
Hygroscopic
A solution having a greater concentration of dissolved solute than the solution to which it is compared
Hypertonic solution
Injection of embalming chemicals directly into the tissues through the use of a syringe and needle or a trocar
Hypodermic embalming
Settling of blood and / or other fluids to dependent portions of the body
- Hypostasis
- Agonal hypostasis
- Antemortem hypostasis
- Postmortem hypostasis
A solution having a lesser concentration of dissolved solute than the solution to which it is compared
Hypotonic solution
The swelling and softening of tissues and organs as a result of absorbing moisture from adjacent sources
Inhibition
A clean cut made with a sharp instrument
Incision
In embalming, a cut made with a scalpel to raise arteries and veins
Incision
Strength of an embalming fluid, indicated by the number of grams of pure formaldehyde gas dissolved in 100 mL of water
Index
Usually refers to a percentage
Index
Percentage of formaldehyde gas in an embalming fluid with an index of 25
25%
A child less than one year of age
Infant
Disease caused by the growth of a pathogenic microorganism in the body
Infectious disease
Beneath
Inferior
Lower
Inferior
Used medically in reference to the undersurface of an organ or indicating a structure below another structure
Inferior
Toward the feet
Inferior
Anatomical structures forming the base of the femoral triangle
Inguinal ligament
Extends from the anterior superior iliac spine to the public tubercle
Inguinal ligament
The act or instance of forcing a fluid into the vascular system or directly into tissues
Injection
The amount of pressure produced by an injection device to overcome initial resistance within (intravascular) or on (extravascular) the vascular system (arterial or venous)
Injection pressure
The immediate stiffening of the muscles of a dead human body
Instantaneous rigor mortis
Between the cells of a structure
Intercellular
Fluid inside cells of the body
Intercellular fluid
Constitutes about one-half of the body weight
Intercellular fluid
Space between the ribs
Intercostal space
Method of drainage in which the drainage is stopped at intervals while the injection continues
- Intermittent drainage
* Restricted drainage
Fluid in the supporting connective tissues surrounding body cells
Interstitial fluid
About one-fifth of the body weight
Interstitial fluid
Within the blood vascular system
Intravascular
Discoloration of the body within the blood vascular system
Intravascular blood discoloration
Examples: Hypostasis, carbon monoxide, and capillary congestion
Intravascular blood discoloration
Fluid contained within vascular channels
Intravascular fluid
About one-twentieth of the body weight
Intravascular fluid
Pressure developed as the flow of embalming solution is established and the elastic arterial walls expand and then contract, resulting in filling of the capillary beds and development of pressure filtration
Intravascular pressure
Condition that results when the body part that dies had little blood and remains aseptic and occurs when the arteries but not the veins are obstructed
- Ischemic necrosis
* Dry gangrene
From within the body
Intrinsic
A solution having an equal concentration of dissolved solute as the solution to which it is compared
Isotonic solution
Condition characterized by excessive concentration of bilirubin in the skin and tissues and deposition of excessive bile pigment in the skin, cornea, body fluids, and mucous membranes with the resulting yellow appearance of the patient
Jaundice
A special vascular fluid with special bleaching and coloring qualities for use on bodies with jaundice
Jaundice fluid
Usually low formaldehyde content
Jaundice fluid
Wound characterized by irregular tearing of tissue
Laceration
Substance used to kill insect larvae
Larvicide
Away from the midline
Lateral
A severe, often fatal, bacterial disease characterized by pneumonia, dry cough and sometimes by gastrointestinal symptoms
Legionaires Disease
Specific pathologic structural and functional changes or both brought about by disease or injury
Lesion
To tie off an artery and vein upon completion of embalming
Ligate
A line drawn or visualized on the surface of the skin to represent the approximate location of some deeper-lying structure
Linear guide
Decomposition of fats
Lipolysis
Postmortem, intravascular, red-blue discoloration resulting from hypostasis of blood
- Liver mortis
* Cadaveric lividity
A cavity or opening of a vein, artery, or intestine
Lumen
A specific antibody acting destructively upon cells and tissues
Lysin
Organelle that exists within a cell, but separate from the cell
Lysosome
Containing hydrolytic enzymes that break down protein and certain carbohydrates
Lysosome
An insect larva
Maggot
Fly larva
Maggot
A stitch used to hold the mouth closed
Mandibular suture
Placed behind the lips, one part is passed through around the inferior jaw at the median plane, while the other part extends through the nasal septum or the superior frenulum
Mandibular suture
Manipulation of tissue in the course of preparation of the body
Massage
The application of treatments or procedures that utilize machines or instruments
Mechanical aids
Adjustments of pressure, rate of flow or use of pulsation with the embalming machine
Mechanical aids
Utilization of properly sized arterial tubes and drainage instruments
Mechanical aids
Opening and closing of drainage instruments
Mechanical aids
Toward the midline
Medial
An official elected or appointed to investigate suspicious or unnatural deaths
Medical examiner
Inflammation of the meninges
Meningitis
A minute, one-celled form of life not distinguishable as to vegetable or animal nature
- Microbe
* Microorganism
That amount of radioactive material in which 37 million atoms disintegrate each second
Millicurie (mCi)
Chemicals added to the embalming solution to deal with varying demands predicated upon the type of embalming, the environment, and the embalming fluid to be used
Modifying agents
Agents which will prohibit the growth of mold
- Mold preventative
* Mold-preventative agents
In a dying state
Moribund
In the agonal period
Moribund
A paste to fix or fill
Mortuary putty
A device used in the mouth in shaping the contour of the lips
Mouth former
This must accompany a hazardous product
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
A requirement of the Department of Labor and OSHA under the Hazard Communication Standard
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
Vascular injection from two or more sites
- Multi-point injection
* Multi-site
Method of mouth closure in which a suture is passed through the septum of the nose and through the mentalis muscle of the chin
Musculature suture
Space between the roof of the mouth and the floor of the cranial cavity
Nasal cavity
Embalming instrument used to aspirate the throat by means of the nostrils
Nasal tube aspirator
Tests and certifies respiratory protective devices and air sampling detector tubes, recommends occupational exposure limits for various substances, and assists OSHA inoccupational safety and health investigations and research
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Antemortem, physiological death of the cells of the body followed by their replacement
Necrobiosis
Pathological death of a tissue still a part of the living organism
Necrosis
A mechanical device used to impel specially designed metal pins into bone
Needle injector
Inflammation of the kidneys
Nephritis
Metabolic by-products that contain nitrogen, such as urea and uric acid
Nitrogenous waste
These compounds have a high affinity for formaldehyde and tend to neutralize embalming chemicals
Nitrogenous waste
A type of arterial fluid that contains inactive dyes that will not impart a color change upon the body tissues of the deceased
Non-cosmetic fluid
Reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact with blood or other potential infectious materials that may result from the performance of worker’s duties
Occupational exposure
A Governmental Agency with the responsibility for regulation and enforcement of safety and health matters for most United States employees
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
An individual State agency may supercede the U.S. Department of Labor regulations
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Injection and drainage from one location
One point injection
Any and all techniques to treat a problem area, excision, incision, and channeling
Operative (aids) corrections
An optical instrument with an accompanying light that makes it possible to examine the retina and to explore for blood circulation
Ophthalmoscope
The most favorable condition for functioning
Optimum
The mouth and the vestibule
Oral cavity
The opening to the throat
Vestibule
Passage of pure solvent from a solution of lesser to one of greater solute concentration when the two solutions are separated by a semipermeable membrane which selectively prevents the passage of solute molecules but it is permeable to the solvent
Osmosis
Embalming instrument used in filling the external orifices of the body
Packing forceps
To examine by touch
Palpate
Incision on the surface of the skin to raise the common carotid arteries
Parallel incision
It is made along the posterior border of the inferior one-third of the sternocleidomastoid muscle
Parallel incision
Piercing mucous membranes or the skin barrier through such events as needlesticks, human bites, cuts and abrasions
Paranteral
A method of expressing low concentrations
Parts per million (ppm)
Equivalent to 1 milligram per liter
1 ppm
In contaminated air, the parts of vapor or gas (formaldehyde) per million parts of air by volume
Parts per million (ppm)
In solution, the parts of chemical per million parts of solution
Parts per million (ppm)
Antemortem discoloration that occurs during the course of certain diseases
Pathological discoloration
Examples: gangrene, jaundice
Pathological discoloration
Substance able to destroy lice
Pediculicide
Effected through unbroken skin
Percutaneous
Chemicals found in embalming arterial formulations having the capability of displacing an unpleasant odor or of altering an unpleasant odor so that it is converted to a more pleasant one
- Perfuming agents
* Masking agents
To force a fluid through (an organ or tissue), especially by way of the blood vessels
Perfusion
Injection during vascular (arterial) embalming
Perfusion
Inflammation of the peritoneum, the membranous coat lining the abdominal cavity and investing the viscera
Peritonitis
The maximum legal established by OSHA for regulated substances
Permissible exposure limit (PEL)
Based on employee exposure that is time-weighted over an 8-hour work shift
Permissible exposure limit (PEL)
When these limits are exceeded, employers must take proper steps to reduce employee exposure
Permissible exposure limit (PEL)
PEL for formaldehyde
.75 ppm
Specialized clothing or equipment worn by an employee for protection against hazard
Personal protection (protective) equipment (PPE)
Antemortem, pinpoint, extravascular blood discoloration visible as purplish hemorrhages of the skin
Petechia
Drugs or medicines that change the biochemical constituents of the blood
Pharmaceutical agents
Condition in which interstitial spaces contain such excessive amounts of fluid that the skin remains depressed after palpation
Pitting edema
Preparation room equipment for properly positioning bodies prior to, during, and after vascular embalming
Positioning devices
Toward the back
Posterior
Period that begins after somatic death
Postmortem
The rise in temperature after death due to continued cellular metabolism
Postmortem caloricity
A change in the form or state of matter without any change in chemical composition
Postmortem physical changes
Extravascular color change that occurs when heme, released by hemolysis of red blood cells, seeps through the vessel walls and into the body tissues
Postmortem stain
Power / potential of hydrogen
Potential of hydrogen (pH)
A number signifying the acidity or alkalinity of a chemical solution
Potential of hydrogen (pH)
The measure of hydrogen ion concentration of a solution
Potential of hydrogen (pH)
The scale ranges from 0 to 14
Potential of hydrogen (pH)
Completely acid
0
Completely basic
14
Neutral
7
Blood pH
7.35-7.45
The pressure indicated by the injector gauge needle when the injector motor is running and the arterial tubing is clamped off
Potential pressure
Turner Portiboy injection machine
Potential pressure
A substance bringing about precipitation
Precipitant
Fluids designed to clear the vascular system of blood and enable the arterial solution to distribute with greater facility
Preinjection fluid
That area or facility where embalming, dressing, cosmetizing, or other body preparation are effected
Preparation room
Chemicals which inactivate saprophytic bacteria, render unsuitable for nutrition the media upon which such bacteria thrive, and which will arrest decomposition by altering enzymes and lysins of the body as well as converting the decomposable tissue to a form less susceptible to decomposition
Preservative
Amount of preservative (formaldehyde) required to effectively preserve remains
- Preservative demand
* Formaldehyde demand
Amount depends on the condition of the tissues as determined in the embalming analysis
- Preservative demand
* Formaldehyde demand
Chemical in powder form
Preservative powder
Typically used for surface embalming of the remains
Preservative powder
Action of a force against an opposing force
Pressure
A force applied or acting against resistance
Pressure
The force per unit area exerted on a material
Pressure
Positive intravascular pressure causing passage of embalming fluid through the capillary wall to diffuse with the interstitial fluids
Pressure filtration
Causing passage of embalming fluid from an intravascular to an extravascular position
Pressure filtration
The dilution attained as the embalming solution is mixed in the embalming machine
Primary dilution
Disinfection carried out prior to the embalming process
Primary disinfection
The recovery of organs or tissues from a cadaver for transplantation or study
Procurement
Projection of the jaw or jaws that may cause problems with mouth closure and alignment of the teeth
Prognathism
Organic compound found in plants and animals
Protein
Can be broken down into amino acids
Protein
Decomposition of proteins
Proteolysis
Any one of a group of nitrogenous organic compounds formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria on proteins
Ptomaine
Examples: Indole, skatole, cadaverine, and putrescine
Ptomaine
The fibrocartilage that joins the two pubic bones in the median plane
Pubic symphysis
Postmortem evacuation of any substance from an external orifice of the body as a result of pressure
Purge
Liquid product of inflammation containing various proteins and leukocytes
Pus
Characteristic pus-filled structure of a disease
Pustular lesion
Examples: smallpox, syphilis, acne
Pustular lesion
Decomposition of proteins by the action of enzymes from anaerobic bacteria
Putrefaction
The supervisor in an institution licensed to use radionuclides who has the responsibility to establish procedures and make recommendations in the use of all radioactive matter
Radiation protection officer
A chemical element that is similar in chemical properties to another element, but differs in atomic weight and electric charge and emits radiation
Radionuclide
An atom that disintegrates by emission of electromagnetic radiation
Radionuclide
Speed at which fluid is injected
Rate of flow
Measured in ounces per minute
Rate of flow
A darkened, air-dried area on the skin resulting from removal of the epidermis while shaving
- Razor burn
* Razor abrasion
Repeated aspiration of a cavity
Re-aspiration
Substance that easily loses electrons and thereby causes other substances to be reduced
Reducing agent
Strong reducing agent
Formaldehyde
An amorphous, nonvolatile solid or soft side substance, a natural exudation from plants
Resinous substance
Any of a class of solid or soft organic compounds of natural or synthetic origin
Resinous substance
Intermittent or alternate injection and drainage
Restricted drainage
Treatments of the deceased in the attempt to recreate natural form and color
Restoration
Supplemental fluids may be separate fluids or ones enhancing arterial fluids by the addition of special chemicals such as humectants, whose purpose is to retain body moisture and retard dehydration
- Restorative fluid
* Humectant
Method of injection wherein both common carotid arteries are raised
Restricted cervical injection
The right side of the heart seen as the center of drainage
Right atrium
Used as a site of drainage via instruments from the right internal jugular vein and direct via the trocar or through the thoracic wall
Right atrium
Postmortem stiffening of the body muscles by natural body processes
Rigor mortis
Decomposition of sugars
Saccharolysis
A process to promote and establish conditions which minimize or eliminate biohazards
Sanitation
The reaction between a fat and a strong base to produce glycerol and the salt of a fatty acid
Saponification
Salt of a fatty acid
Soap
Process of soap formation
Saponification
As related to decomposition, the conversion of fatty tissues of the body into a soapy waxy substance called adipocere or grave wax
Saponification
Bacteria that derive their nutrition from dead organic matter
Saprophytic bacteria
A two piece-embalming instrument consisting of a handle and a blade used to make incisions and excisions
Scalpel
Material used to provide a barrier or seal against any type of leakage of fluid or blood
- Sealing agents
* Sealers
Weakening of the embalming fluid by the fluids in the body, both vascular and interstitial
Secondary dilution
Pathologic state, resulting from the presence of microorganisms or their products in the blood or other tissues
Sepsis
Condition characterized by the multiplication of bacteria in blood
Septicemia
A chemical agent that can “fence off” or “tie up” metal ions so they cannot react with other chemicals
Sequestering agent
Notched on the edge like a saw, as seen with forceps
Serrated
Hypodermic needles, suture needles, injector needles, scalpel blades, razor blades, pins, and other items sharp enough to cause percutaneous injury, penetration of unbroken skin
Sharps
May include other items normally not disposed of following use, such as scissors, teeth, finger nails, and ribs
Sharps
OSHA-required receptacle for proper disposal of sharps
Sharps container
Legal limits established by OSHA to which workers can be exposed continuously for a short period of time without damage or injury
Short Term Exposure Limit (STEL)
Exposure should not be for more than 15 minutes and not repeated more than four times per workday
Short Term Exposure Limit (STEL)
Manifestation of death in the body
Sign of death
An unstable salt usually produced in an aqueous solution and used as a bleaching and disinfecting agent
Sodium hypochlorite
A substance dissolved in a solvent to form a solution
Solute
The component of a solution present in a lesser amount
Solute
A homogeneous mixture of one or more substances (solutes) dissolved in a sufficient quantity of solvent
Solution
A substance that does the dissolving in a solution
Solvent
The component of a solution present in a greater amount
Solvent
Death of the organism as a whole
Somatic death
Injection from one site and drainage from a separate site
Split injection
Oven or appliance for sterilizing
Sterilizers
An autoclave that disinfects by steam under pressure at temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius
Sterilizers
A process of completely removing or destroying all life forms and / or their products on or in a substance
Sterilization
Delicate instrument used to detect almost inaudible sounds produced in the body
Stethoscope
Dead at birth
Stillborn
A product of conception either expelled or extracted dead
Stillborn
Situated or occurring beneath the skin
Subcutaneous
Distension of the tissues beneath the skin by gas or air
Subcutaneous emphysema
An antemortem condition brought about by a surgical procedure or trauma
Subcutaneous emphysema
Pertaining to or situated near the surface
Superficial
More elevated in place or position
Superior
Higher
Superior
Upper
Superior
Anatomically towards the head
Superior
Fluid injected for purposes other than preservation and disinfection
Supplemental fluid
General categories of supplemental fluid
- Preinjection
- Coinjection
- Humectants / restorative fluids
Cloth, wet or dry, folded and applied firmly to a body part
Surface compress
The direct contact of body tissues with embalming chemicals
Surface embalming
A discoloration due to the deposit of matter on the skin surface
Surface discoloration
These discolorations may occur antemortem, during, or after embalming of the body
Surface discoloration
Causes include adhesive tape, ink, iodine, paint, tobacco stains
Surface discoloration
An absorbent material compress saturated with an embalming chemical and placed in direct contact with the tissue
Surface pack
Chemical that reduces the molecular cohesion of a liquid so it can flow through smaller apertures
- Surfactant
- Wetting agent
- Surface tension reducer
- Penetrating agent
- Surface-active agent
Minute petechial hemorrhages caused by the rupture of minute vessels as blood settles into the dependent areas of organs and tissues
Tardieu spots
It is accompanied by livor mortis
Tardieu spots
A postmortem, extravascular blood discoloration
Tardieu spots
Most common in asphyxia or slow deaths
Tardieu spots
The science of treating the body chemically so as to temporarily inhibit decomposition
Temporary preservation
Institution of disinfection and decontamination measures after the preparation of the remains
Terminal disinfection
Any procedure used to prove a sign of death
Test of death
Study of death
Thanatology
Destruction of cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues
Third degree burns
Seared, charred, or roasted tissue
Third degree burns
A general term
Tissue coagulation
The solidification of a sol into a gelatinous mass
Tissue coagulation
A specific form of coagulation
Agglutination
Postmortem accumulation of gas in tissues or cavities brought about by an anaerobic gas-forming bacillus, Clostridium perfringens
Tissue gas
The yellowing / browning of the fingernails and fingers from excessive use of cigarettes
Tobacco tars
A surface discoloration
Tobacco tars
Disinfection of the surface of the body or an object
Topical disinfection
An agonal or postmortem redistribution of host microflora on a hostwide basis
Translocation
The grafting of living tissue from its normal position to another site, or of an organ or tissue from one person to another
Transplantation
Lying at right angles to the long axis of the body
Transverse
A physical injury or wound caused by external force or violence
Trauma
Sharply pointed surgical instrument used in cavity embalming to aspirate the cavities and inject cavity fluid
Trocar
May be used for supplemental hypodermic embalming
Trocar
A plastic threaded screw-like device for sealing punctures and small round trocar openings
Trocar button
A line drawn or visualized on the surface of the body or a prominent anatomic structure used to locate internal structures during cavity embalming, from a point of reference two inches to the left of and two inches superior to the umbilicus
Trocar guide
An evaluation of exposures that are time-weighted over an established period
Time-weighted average (TWA)
Allows the exposure levels to be averaged generally over an 8-hour time period
Time-weighted average (TWA)
Plastic garment designed to cover the entire body from the chest down to and including the feet
Unionall
An approach to infection control in which all human blood and certain human body fluids are treated as if known to be infectious
Universal precautions
Apparatus that prevents the back-siphoning of contaminated liquids into potable water supply lines or plumbing cross-connections within the preparation room
Vacuum breaker
The use of the blood vascular system of the body for temporary preservation, disinfection, and restoration
Vascular (arterial) embalming
Accomplished through injection of embalming solutions into the arteries and drainage from the veins
Vascular (arterial) embalming
Liquids that serve as a solvent for the numerous ingredients that are incorporated into embalming fluids
Vehicle
Internal organs enclosed within a cavity
Viscera
The resistance that a liquid exhibits to the flow of one layer over another arising from the molecular attraction between the molecules of a liquid
Viscosity
The thickness of a liquid
Viscosity
An agent to remove chemical constituents from municipal water supplies that could interfere with drainage and preservation
Water conditioner
Injection of an arterial solution composed of a preservative embalming fluid which is diluted with supplemental chemicals such as humectants, water conditioners and co-injections
Waterless embalming
Quality of water containing certain substances, especially soluble salts of calcium and magnesium
Water hardness
A condition resulting from the use of an embalming solution containing an insufficient amount of preservative to meet the preservation demand of the tissues
Waterlog
The interstitial spaces are overly filled, engorged with water
Waterlog
Controls that reduce the likelihood of exposure by altering the manner in which a task is performed
Work practice controls
Example: prohibiting recapping of needles and not allowing blood splatter or aerosolization of blood while draining during the embalming process
Work practice controls
