The first quarter of study introduces the student of funeral service to the basic vocabulary utilized by the professional embalmer. The need and purpose of embalming, as well as the responsibilities, conduct, and qualities of the professional embalmer are discussed. The structure of a preparation room and the typical devices and instruments used will be discussed as well as the presentation of the various historical devices used to inject arterial fluid into the body. In addition, the chemicals that are used in the embalming process are presented. The quarter continues with a study of the governmental agencies and the regulations that govern the embalming of dead human remains. This quarter of the study of embalming examines both the physical and chemical changes, as well as the ante-mortem and post-mortem processes that typically occur in a human being prior to embalming. To complement the student’s knowledge of bone structure, muscles and the circulatory system, detailed linear guides, anatomical limits, and anatomical guides used to locate the major blood vessels used in the embalming of a human body are examined. The quarter concludes with the concept of proper embalming analysis. This analysis will be used to prescribe and apply the proper techniques in preparing a human body for funeralization. Various intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence the embalming analysis will be discussed. A detailed study of the recommended procedures for embalming a normal body is presented, to include the posing of the mouth and eyes. The student is also exposed to the methods by which the strength, volume, and temperature of the arterial fluid is calculated for normal cases as well as emaciated and edematous remains.
