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Embalming

To preserve and prevent decomposition, a body can be embalmed. Stopping decomposition is important when the body will be viewed by family or the community. For viewing purposes, this procedure is used. The mortuary will ask for a recent picture of the deceased to use in preparing the face and clothes to dress the body.

preventing body from decomposing
Embalming

How Embalming Works

The process involves the use of chemicals, primarily formaldehyde. However, today most techniques involve a mix of chemical agents that include glutaraldehyde, ethanol, humectants, formaldehyde and other wetting agents. The deceased fluids are drained, and these chemicals are injected into the arteries, tissues, and even organs of the body.

Steps Of Embalming

  • Ensuring that the body is, in fact, deceased
  • Washing and disinfecting the body
  • Setting of the face (closing the eyes and positioning the facial features into a natural expression)
  • Embalming can include arterial fluid draining and replacement, cavity embalming, and surface embalming
  • Facial moisturizing and makeup
  • Dressing and situating for the viewing

Other Resources On Embalming

A great article can be found here.

Also, see funeral options here.