Mortuary Science and End-of-Life Planning

mortuary

If you’re considering a career in the mortuary industry, you have a lot of different options. You can become a mortician, work in a funeral home, or even be a scientist in the field of embalming and end-of-life planning. Whatever path you choose, you’re sure to have a lot of fun.

Become a mortuary scientist

If you are fascinated by the science behind death, mortuary science is an excellent career choice for you. It involves the preservation and preparation of bodies for medical and research purposes, as well as funeral services. The profession requires compassion and a strong emotional quotient.

You can obtain an associate’s degree in mortuary science from a junior or community college. Alternatively, you can take a bachelor’s degree in mortuary science, which includes more technical courses on anatomical restoration and restorative work.

A mortuary scientist typically works in a licensed funeral home. His or her job duties include embalming, preparing the body for viewing, and repairing a person’s facial features. Mortuary science also requires the study of the human anatomy and the postmortem decomposition process.

The National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association offers scholarships for those pursuing a mortuary science education. Additionally, the American Board of Funeral Service Education oversees licensing requirements for funeral directors.

While you’re studying, it’s important to find an internship or work experience in a funeral home. This will help you understand the practical aspects of the profession.

In addition to studying the anatomy of the human body, students also learn about the mourning process and the psychology of grief. These courses are useful for helping you understand the emotional needs of your clients.

Embalming

Embalming is the process of preserving the body of a dead human being. It is typically done at a funeral home and is used to preserve a body until it is time to bury it.

There are many different embalming processes. Some embalming techniques include gravity feed, restricted cervical and anatomical embalming.

The anatomical method involves injecting a high concentration of formaldehyde into the circulatory system. This procedure may be performed using a trocar or incision. In addition, a special treatment is used to remove internal fluids that are present inside the cavities of the body.

Modern embalming techniques have been developed through decades of research and trial and error. These procedures include pre-injection, an arterial injection and a topical disinfectant.

Before beginning the embalming process, a licensed embalmer will assess the body for any signs of decomposition or disease. The embalmer will also note whether or not fecal matter is present. He or she will also check for blemishes.

The process of embalming a body is minimally invasive. First, the deceased is placed in a supine position. Next, an incision is made above the navel. Afterwards, a trocar is pushed into the abdominal cavity.

The body is then cleansed with a germicidal soap and disinfectant. A moisturizing cream is then applied to the face and hands.

End-of-life planning

There are numerous benefits of end-of-life planning. It can help you make the most of your time and energy, and help your loved ones be more prepared for the inevitable. For instance, you may choose to die in the comfort of your own home.

End-of-life planning may also involve a living trust. A trust is a legal document that allows you to manage your finances while you’re still alive. Your estate planner can assist with creating a plan.

Another benefit of end-of-life planning is the peace of mind it will bring to your family. You’ll be able to let them know what you want without worrying about how to pay for it.

A plan can also include end-of-life medical care wishes. Having an informed physician in the know can help ensure that your wishes are carried out.

Getting all of your wishes down on paper can be a daunting task, but it’s not impossible. You can use one of several websites to create a free will template. Depending on your state, you may have to get your will notarized before it is enforceable. Some states require two unrelated witnesses.

The end-of-life is an emotional and stressful time for you and your loved ones. Having a written plan for what you want done with your assets can relieve some of the stress.

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