Body Preparation and Funeral Procedures
Before embalming begins, the body is washed in disinfectant. Limbs are massaged to relieve stiffening. Any necessary shaving occurs. To embalm, preservative chemicals are injected to replace blood. Using a machine, blood is removed and embalming fluid pumped through the circulatory system. Refrigeration can also preserve but is not always available. If transporting unembalmed remains is necessary, the body may be packed in ice.
The job is physically and emotionally draining. Morticians are sometimes on-call overnight if the hospital lacks refrigeration. In addition to determining cause of death, coroners identify the body, notify next of kin, sign the death certificate, and return belongings.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Morticians: Assume possession of the body after death and disinfect the deceased using soap before ceremonies.
- Funeral Directors: Help celebrate lives by moving the body, filing paperwork, and coordinating services while supporting grieving families.
The executor decides on burial, cremation, or other options. There is no legal obligation to host a funeral. The embalming process typically takes two hours, longer if the cause of death affected the body. An embalmer prepares the body by removing fluids and replacing them to slow decomposition. A mortician helps arrange the funeral, oversees burial, collects floral arrangements, and sends keepsakes.