An embalmer is a specialized professional responsible for the physical preparation of the deceased within the funeral service industry. This work involves technical and artistic procedures designed to make the body suitable for viewing, transportation, or final disposition. The role requires a unique blend of scientific knowledge, manual dexterity, and respect for the deceased, ensuring they are presented in a dignified manner.
The Core Purpose of Embalming
Embalming achieves three primary objectives serving public health and emotional needs. The first is sanitation, which involves disinfecting the remains to eliminate harmful microorganisms. This creates a safe environment for staff and the public, acting as a public health safeguard, especially when infectious diseases are involved.
The second objective is temporary preservation, chemically treating tissues to slow decomposition. This allows families time to arrange services and is often legally required for transportation or delayed disposition. The third focus is restoration, aiming to present the deceased in a natural, peaceful appearance for the therapeutic benefit of the grieving family.
The Technical Steps of the Embalming Process
The physical process begins with positioning the body on a specialized embalming table. The embalmer first relieves rigor mortis by flexing and massaging the limbs to restore flexibility and place the body in a natural pose. The entire surface is then washed and disinfected using germicidal soap.
The main preservation technique is arterial injection, introducing an embalming solution, typically containing formaldehyde, into the circulatory system via a major artery. Simultaneously, blood and fluids are drained from a corresponding vein, often the jugular vein. A centrifugal pump controls the pressure and flow, ensuring even distribution of the preservative throughout the vascular network.
Following the arterial phase, cavity embalming treats the internal organs. A small incision is made above the navel, and a trocar is inserted to aspirate and remove gases and fluids from the chest and abdominal cavities. A concentrated cavity fluid is then injected to preserve the organs, and the incision is closed using a suture or trocar button. Supplemental techniques, such as hypodermic or surface embalming, may be used to treat localized areas where the arterial fluid did not distribute effectively.
Restorative Art and Aesthetic Preparation
The embalmer functions as a restorative artist, focusing on the external appearance to provide a comforting visual memory for the family. This work begins with setting the facial features, including closing the eyes using plastic eye caps and securing the mouth. The mouth is often closed using a needle injector or by suturing the lips together.
Specific attention is given to restoring a lifelike appearance by addressing post-mortem changes, trauma, or disfigurations. This involves specialized techniques like derma-surgery, applying wax to fill lacerations, or using adhesives to mend tissue. Cosmetics, including foundation and blush, are applied to restore natural color lost during the embalming process. Hair is washed, styled, and dressed according to the family’s wishes. The goal of this aesthetic preparation is a peaceful presentation that assists the family during viewing and grieving.
Beyond the Prep Room: Administrative and Logistical Duties
An embalmer’s role extends beyond technical work, encompassing significant administrative and logistical responsibilities. Accurate and detailed record-keeping is essential for legal and regulatory compliance. This requires documenting every aspect of the procedure, including chemicals used, solution concentration, injection sites, and restorative procedures performed.
The embalmer manages the inventory of specialized chemicals and equipment, ensuring the preparation room is consistently stocked. Routine coordination with the funeral director confirms the preparation status aligns with the family’s wishes and the service schedule. Furthermore, they must maintain the cleanliness and sanitation of the preparation room, strictly adhering to occupational safety and health standards.
Educational Requirements and Professional Licensing
Becoming a licensed embalmer requires a combination of formal education, practical training, and examination. Aspiring embalmers must graduate from a program accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE), typically earning a degree in Mortuary Science or Funeral Service. The curriculum includes intensive study in anatomy, pathology, microbiology, chemistry, and restorative art.
Graduation is followed by a mandatory apprenticeship or residency period, which often requires one to two years of supervised practical experience. During this time, the apprentice works under a licensed embalmer, assisting in a specified number of cases to gain hands-on proficiency. Licensure requires passing state and national examinations, such as the National Board Examination (NBE), and a state-specific jurisprudence exam covering funeral service laws.
Essential Personal Qualities for an Embalmer
Success in embalming depends on soft skills and psychological attributes as much as technical proficiency. Empathy and professionalism are foundational, allowing the embalmer to approach sensitive work with respect and discretion. They must maintain a composed demeanor when interacting with grieving families, providing support while executing their duties.
A strong attention to detail is indispensable for precise chemical measurements and meticulous restorative procedures. Physical stamina and dexterity are necessary, as the job involves long hours, standing, and the physical effort of moving the deceased. The ability to cope with the emotional demands of working with death daily requires significant emotional resilience.