How to become an Embalmer?

What is an Embalmer?

An Embalmer is a trained professional with a specialized set of skills. Embalmer is someone who cleans and preserves bodies before they are buried. They clean the bodies, drain the blood, and replace it with embalming fluid and other preservative chemicals to keep them from deteriorating before funeral services. Depending on the deceased’s condition, an embalmer may also carry out intricate restorative procedures to cover up any harm done while the person was still alive. To give the departed a natural and serene image, an embalmer may also use makeup and hairstyles, depending on the family’s preferences and demands. Also embalming, a combination of art and science, must be carried out for legal, medical, and personal reasons.

Process and Technique of Embalming:

When someone dies, the inside environment of the body is disinfected through the embalming process. It delays the body’s post-mortem changes, giving the dead a more peaceful appearance and, in some cases, erasing some immediately visible signs of the cause of death. Embalming process is done because after the death of a person, their body function can  create bacterial infection which is not good for a living person’s body and can affect them or make them ill. Embalming is the process of introduction of a disinfectant solution to the internal environment of the body. The process of Embalming normally takes 2 hours to complete, which includes cleaning or washing the body of the deceased. This time may be increased if the cause of death has affected the body in any way. This process is done to the deceased family to view their relatives for a longer period of time without natural process taking place. 

Legal requirements and regulations for embalmers:

The answer is no, embalming is not needed by law, in fact, no funeral house is allowed to claim otherwise under the Funeral Law of the Federal Trade Commission. But at the same time, If human remains are not embalmed within 24 hours of death, they must be either sealed inside a container that does not allow fumes or odors to escape or kept under refrigeration, according to the Pennsylvania Code that governs professional conduct for funeral directors in the Commonwealth. If remains are kept in refrigeration until the time of the funeral, disposition must take place within 5 hours of their removal from refrigeration. The Code also states that an unembalmed body that has been kept in refrigeration for more than 36 hours should not be displayed to the public. Also in some cases, there is no need for an individual to be embalmed if a family decides to have them cremated without first holding a public viewing. Likewise, no funeral home may assert that embalming is necessary for cremation of human remains, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

Anatomy and Physiology:

• Anatomy and physiology are two of the most fundamental terms and disciplines in the life sciences. Anatomy is the study of the internal and external structures of the body, and  their physical relationships, whereas Physiology is the study of the functions of those structures.

• Anatomy and Physiology introduces the structure and function of the human body, the cells, tissues and membranes that make up our bodies and how our major systems function to help us develop and stay healthy.

• For more knowledge about Anatomy & Physiology you can refer to books that are related to Life Science. 

Some best books for Anatomy and Physiology are – 

Human Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy and Physiology

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology 15th Edition Custom Edition

Atlas of Human Anatomy, Professional Edition E-Book: Digital EBook

Anatomy and Physiology 2e

Pathology and Microbiology:

• Microbiology is the study of tiny creatures, they could have one cell, several cells, or no cells. Pathology is the medical science field that deals with the study of organs, tissues, and bodily fluids in order to diagnose disease.
• The more accurate difference between both can be defined as :-  Microbiologist studies various microorganisms and their effects on the environment. A Pathologist, on the other hand, investigates the cause of disease or death by studying micro cells and tissues. Microbiologists conduct research on microorganisms in a variety of fields such as the environment, food, and industry.

• For more detailed study about Microbiology and Pathology you can refer to books, as they have a detailed and professional language description of both. 

Some of the books for Microbiology and Pathology are:

Microbiology & Plant Pathology

Text Book of Pathology & Microbiology for Paramedical Students

Microbiology and Pathology

Synopsis of Clinical Pathology and Microbiology

Plant Pathology and Microbiology

Funeral home operations:

A funeral home or mortuary is a business that provides burial and funeral services to the deceased and their families. These services may include a planned wake and funeral, as well as the provision of a funeral chapel.  Funeral Home’s mission is to bring people together to celebrate life’s end and to carry on living. The funeral home will have facilities for introducing families and communities together to remember the deceased’s life and renew social support bonds.

One of the primary goals of funeral service providers is to make arrangements to honor the deceased in accordance with the wishes of the bereaved family. Funeral homes embalm the deceased and perform other preparations such as dressing a body for a wake. 

Funeral service psychology:

The funeral is psychologically necessary because it allows for the necessary grief work to maintain emotional health and helps Families of the deceased to understand their various emotional responses by confronting them with the reality of the death. It’s the time for everyone to express their grief for the loss of their loved one and to convey what they have lost.  It also reflects a clear mirror of life indicating what is important. It is also an opportunity for people to come together and support one another. Attending a visitation can be the most difficult part of attending a funeral because it does require people to talk to the deceased’s family. It is best to say something simple, such as “I am sorry for your loss,” especially if there are many other guests waiting to express their condolences. Funerals are an important part of grieving because they reinforce the reality that the death has occurred. We must allow our grief to surface, and a funeral provides a safe and appropriate setting in which to express and share our feelings with others. This sets the stage for healthy grieving.

Mortuary law and ethics:

Mortuary law is concerned with legal issues concerning cemeteries, crematoria, and funeral homes. If adequate end-of-life care is not provided, funeral homes, cemeteries, and even medical institutions may be held liable for negligence or malpractice. Families may be entitled to compensation and punitive penalties from a facility for a variety of types of funeral malpractice or negligence, including embalming errors, theft, and also fraud. The Registered Owner of the Deed of Exclusive Right of Burial automatically has the right to be buried in the grave; they may also allow others to be buried in the grave (space permitting). However, they do not own the land. The Council retains ownership of the cemetery land.

Chemicals and instruments used in Embalming:

1.Chemicals used in Embalming –

Embalming fluid is made up of formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, methanol, and various solvents. Formaldehyde, methanol, sodium borate, sodium nitrate, glycerin, coloring agents, and water are common ingredients in embalming fluids. The vitreous specimen’s pink discoloration indicates that the vitreous humor has been contaminated with embalming fluid.

2.Instruments used in Embalming – 

• Arterial Tubes
• Sundries
• Trocars
• Aspirators
• Stopcocks & Adapters
• Needle Injectors
• Drain Tubes
• Hypodermic Needles & Valves
• Quick Disconnects
• Dodge Chemicals
• Stainless Suture Needles

How to preparing the dead body for viewing:

Embalmers must pay attention to the environment in which the body is supposed to be presented. It must present in a dignified manner, should provide support and provide opportunities for viewing the deceased. The interventions may or can help to reduce family stress. It is also important to respect patients and families wishes about their after death care. Sometimes, family’s do have preferences regarding how the body must be presented or handled, and this must be honored when the body is being prepared for viewing. 

Embalming for autopsy cases:

After reading the statement, the first question that comes to our mind is “what is Autopsy?”. The answer to this question is, All deaths that are not natural (homicides, suicides, accidents), suspicious, or unanticipated call for a legal investigation, which involves an autopsy as part of the process of gathering evidence. Autopsy is related to embalming as embalming is used to preserve a body temporarily for the purposes of supervised visits. An autopsy, often known as a post-mortem, is used to identify the cause of death. Both involve surgery, but they have different objectives. These are incompatible since an autopsied body might later be embalmed for a visitation. In simple words embalming is the part of autopsy as, during an autopsy, vital organs are removed and immersed in embalming fluid before being replaced in the body, often surrounded by a preservative powder.

Safety measures and precautions for embalmers:

Here are some safety measures that an Embalmer must consider while doing the procedure of embalming:

• Should be careful of cuts, lacerations and splashing of contaminated blood.
• Wear safety glasses or goggles, or glass shield if there are chances of blood splash. 
• Should be very careful while transferring the body to the table, carefully unwrap the body and put body bags in the bin. 
• Wear two pairs of gloves, avoid torn gloves and wash hands carefully. 
• Disinfectant the body with medical grade disinfectant. 
• Pack orifices with cotton soaked in sodium hypochlorite solution. 
• If using an infection gun, cover your face with a towel soaked in disinfectant.
• Wrap the deceased body in plastic before dressing. 
• Saturate immediately any spills of blood or body fluid with medical grade disinfectant.
• Wash eyes and skin with running water if in case the blood is splitted on your skin or eyes, you must seek medical advice. 
• Spit out immediately if blood is splashed in your mouth. Rinse your mouth with water and should seek medical advice. 
• Wash hands with a germicide after completing restoration procedures.
• Report immediately if you suspect needlestick or sharp injury advised to take medical procedures. 

Professional organizations for embalmers:

A membership organization for professional funeral directors, morticians, and embalmers, NFD&MA works to advance its members’ shared professional and commercial interests. Its members and members-at-large are also members of state associations of funeral directors, morticians, and embalmers.

• NFDA is the largest funeral director association. It  provides its members with critical information, innovative tools, resources and the professional community they need to serve families, run sustainable businesses and become pillars in their communities.
• With over 2,000 facilities spread out over the United States and Canada, Service Corporation International (SCI) is the largest funeral home provider in the entire world. SCI was established in 1962 and has almost 50 years of experience as a pioneer in the funeral home sector.

Role of an embalmer in the funeral industry:

The major role of an Embalmer is that – 

• They treat corpses with respect and care. After an injury, bodies should be cleaned, disinfected, and given a fresh coat of paint. Preservatives should be added in place of the body’s natural gasses and liquids. 
• At the same time embalmers do wash and disinfect bodies and restore the appearance of bodies after injury. 
• They also remove fluids and gasses from the body and replace them with preservatives. 
• Usually they work with funeral arrangers to make sure the family’s wishes are met and keep the mortuary clean and complete paperwork. 

History of embalming and the embalming profession:

• Embalming first appeared in Egypt during the first dynasty. It is estimated that it began around 3200 BC and lasted until AD 650. Egyptian embalming was done for religious reasons. Their belief was that the preservation of the human body (intact) was a necessary condition for resurrection.
• During the American Civil War, when servicemen frequently died far from home, embalming became more common in the United States. The desire of families for their loved ones’ remains to be returned home for local burial, combined with the lengthy transport from the battlefield, made it common in the United States.
• Although Frederick Ruyschwas was the first to perfect arterial injection of utilizing preservation fluids into the vascular system, Thomas Holmes is known as the renowned father of modern/American embalming (he however did not publish his findings). Injection through the veins was invented for the first time by Leonardo Da Vinci in the late 1400s and early 1500s.

Purpose of embalming:

Three objectives are achieved through embalming: cleaning, preservation, and restoration. The body parts are cleaned to get rid of dangerous germs, maintained to slow down natural decomposition processes, and reconstituted to give the person a more human aspect. Embalming cannot completely stop the natural process of decomposition.  Embalming is one method funeral directors use to ensure that public interaction with human remains is possible.

Process of embalming:

Because of government support, embalming is now a standard practice in the United States, and it is required when bodies are transported by common carrier and, in many states, when there is more than 48 hours between death and burial. In the modern embalming procedure, blood is drained from one of the veins and replaced by a fluid, typically a formaldehyde-in-water solution, injected into one of the main arteries. Cavity fluid is removed with a trocar, a long hollow needle, and replaced with a preservative. Embalming is typically performed in funeral homes and occurs soon after death. First, the body is cleaned and any fluids are removed. The embalming fluid is then injected into the arteries, which aids in the preservation of body tissues. Finally, the body is dressed and ready to be viewed.

Techniques and tools used in embalming:

Embalming is regarded as “one of humankind’s oldest arts,” and it was invented by the Egyptians around 3200 B.C. because they claimed that religious restoration could only take place for bodies that were preserved intact. They are the first ones to invent the technique and procedure of embalming. Embalming for funeral purposes now primarily consists of removing all blood and gasses from the body and introducing a disinfecting fluid; the viscera may be removed and immersed in an embalming fluid before being replaced in the body and covered with a preservative powder.

Here are tools/machinery that are used for the process of Embalming:

• Anti-Clogging Aspirator Head
• Aspirator Extension 
• Hydro Aspirator 
• Cavity Chemical Injector 
• Torocars 
• Splash Tubing 
• Super Drain Tube 
• Water Control Unite
• Trocar Button Applicator

Anatomy and physiology requirements in embalming:  

• Embalming process in Anatomy – Embalming for funeral purposes now consists primarily of removing all blood and gasses from the body and inserting a disinfecting fluid; the viscera may be removed and immersed in an embalming fluid before being replaced in the body and covered with a preservative powder.
• Embalming process in Physiology – It comprises treating the dead body with a specific chemical solution (embalming fluid) that lessens the amount of germs in the body and their growth, temporarily halts biological decomposition by either autolysis or putrefaction, and gives the dead body a presentable physical appearance.

Pathology and microbiology knowledge required for Embalming:

• Pathology required in Embalming – The field of medicine called pathology offers patients and clinicians diagnostic data. It affects almost every facet of patient care, from cancer diagnosis to the management of chronic diseases through precise laboratory testing.
• Microbiology required in Embalming – The first two aspects, sanitation and preservation, reflect effective microorganism control. Embalmers use formaldehyde, a soluble gas, to achieve these two goals. This soluble gas enters the body through the arterial system, allowing it to reach every tissue.

Importance of embalming for funeral services:

There are 3 main importance of embalming in the funeral services – preservation, cleaning, and restoration. The body parts are cleaned to get rid of any dangerous germs, maintained to slow down natural decay, and reconstituted to give the person a more human aspect. Embalming process also consist of a main fluid without that an embalming process cannot be completed i.e. “The Artificial Fluid”. Preservatives, germicides, anticoagulants, dyes, and perfume are all found in arterial fluid. For every 50 pounds of body weight, the embalmer must inject approximately 1 gallon of fluid. Embalming process also focuses on sanitization, presentation and preservation of a dead body. Embalming also allows family members and friends to gather together and before the deceased and have the final viewing as it also allows time for viewing and ceremonies with the diseased presence.

 

Differences between embalming and cremation:

When you choose cremation, you are paying for not only the cremation but also your gathering of choice and (in some cases) a slot or tomb. When you choose burial, you pay for embalming, casket selection, and the actual opening and closing of the grave. Embalming is not required for a cremation or a service held after the cremation is complete. If the service will take place with the body present prior to cremation, embalming is required. Many families are perplexed by this. Cremation is frequently less expensive because there are fewer services and products to purchase. You don’t need a casket, embalming, or a plot, which is important in cities like Toronto where burial space is limited and expensive.

Embalming for open-casket funerals:

Embalming enables an open-casket funeral so that mourners may say their final farewells. Although embalming slows down the natural decomposition process, it does not completely stop it. All bodies eventually deteriorate, whether or not they have been embalmed. You shouldn’t leave the embalmed body out for more than a week if you’re planning an open-casket funeral. The embalmed body can last two additional weeks if not.

It is entirely possible to visit someone or have an open coffin at a funeral when the person has not been embalmed. We’ve done it before, and the person will be just as well cared for and should appear calm.

What is the purpose of Embalming in body donation and medical research?

The importance of Embalming in body donation comes as, Donated bodies are utilized for medical research, anatomical inspection, and educational purposes. The infections existing in the donated body will be exposed to medical personnel. In simple words, medical students may study a donor to learn about the body as they cut it open and examine it, tracing nerves and arteries. Alternatively, the donor could be used by a variety of experts, including surgeons, cardiologists, radiologists, and paramedics, to develop and practice their skills. Embalming in medicine is a process of chemically preserving tissues using fixatives like formalin or other fluids that may obstruct toxicological examinations. Formaldehyde, methanol, sodium borate, sodium nitrate, glycerin, coloring agents, and water are typical components of embalming fluids.

Cultural and religious considerations in embalming:

The cultural beliefs for Embalming come from ancient egypt. Egyptians are the first one to introduce the Embalming process. Egyptian embalming was done for religious reasons. Their belief was that the preservation of the human body was a necessary condition for resurrection. It was introduced in America after the civil war, when servicemen frequently died far from home, embalming became more common in the United States. The desire of families for their loved ones’ remains to be returned home for local burial, combined with the lengthy transport from the battlefield, made it common in the United States.

Embalming for deceased military personnel

Mortuary Affairs is a branch of the United States Army Quartermaster Corps tasked with recovering, identifying, transporting, and preparing deceased American and American-allied military personnel for burial. For eligible veterans, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) programme “Honoring Those Who Served” provides Military Funeral Honors. Honors typically include two or more uniformed service members folding and presenting a United States burial flag to the family, as well as the playing of Taps. Even in the military, one can learn how to embalm bodies. At up to $54,000 a year.

Cost of embalming services:

Embalming typically costs $500-$700 and is rarely more than $1,000. Embalming isn’t always necessary, and it depends on whether the body is buried or cremated, as well as how quickly the service takes place after the deceased’s death.

Questions to ask when selecting an embalmer or funeral home:

Here are the list of question that you must ask while selecting a funeral home or an embalmer:

1. What is included in your cost and what isn’t?
2. What kind of service do you offer?
3. Could the funeral be customized?
4. What will happen if I move?
5. Can we pick the funeral’s date and time?
6. Do you provide guidance and help around-the-clock?
7. What kind of funeral transportation do you offer?
8. May I pay my loved one a visit before the service?
9. Do you handle the paperwork and communicate with outside parties?
10. Where will the body of the deceased be stored until the funeral?

Future trends and innovations in the embalming profession:

Today, we use embalming for two main reasons: to allow enough time between death and burial to observe social customs like visitations and funeral services, and to prevent the spread of infection. Cosmetic surgery is frequently used for aesthetic reasons. During the Middle Ages, embalming procedures included evisceration, immersion of the body in alcohol, insertion of preservative herbs into previously made incisions in the flesh parts of the body, and wrapping the body in tarred or waxed sheets. The blood is drained from one of the veins and replaced by a fluid, usually based on Formalin, which is injected into one of the main arteries, during the modern embalming procedure. Cavity fluid is removed with a trocar, a long hollow needle, and replaced with a preservative.

Embalming for organ and tissue donation cases:

These days, The most commonly considered method of donation is organ donation via transplant; however, only a small percentage of potential donors are eligible for this type of donation. This is one reason for the scarcity of transplantable organs, as well as a reason to raise awareness through education. For a variety of reasons, the criteria for organ donation are a complex process; however, there are other types of donation with much broader parameters, allowing more people to contribute to the well-being or education of others. To protect the arms and shoulders when embalming a heart and lung donor, inject the left and right subclavian arteries from the thoracic cavity. To keep the head intact, inject the left and right common carotids. To protect the remaining abdominal viscera, trunk, and legs, inject the abdominal aorta.

Restorative art techniques in embalming:

Restorative art: The care of the deceased in order to recreate natural form and color, as well as to restore accurate appearance or resemblance in life. A concept known as restorative methods serves as the basis for establishing, preserving, and mending relationships. The restorative “way of being” tries to work with people rather than doing things to or for them, and it fosters a culture of high challenge and high support. The practice of restoring a body to a more realistic appearance is known as restorative art. It might be as easy as washing, clothing, and applying makeup and hair to the body or as difficult as reshaping facial characteristics. A mortician typically performs restorative art, which takes place at a mortuary.

Embalming for traumatic or violent deaths:

Embalming serves three functions: disinfection, preservation, and restoration. The remains are disinfected to kill harmful microbes, preserved to slow the natural processes of decomposition, and restored to give the person a more relaxed appearance.

In extreme cases – It involves the draining of blood, injecting preservatives into the body, and using cosmetics to make it look realistic. This practice has been applied in diverse forms since ancient times, but extreme embalming takes it to a whole new level. 

Long-term preservation and storage techniques in Embalming:

Now-a-days Embalming is done to preserve bodies of the deceased for a longer period of time to perform his funeral as per his family’s demand and sometimes as per the wish of the dead person. This process of preservation is essentially done by the removal of all blood and gasses from the body and inserting the disinfecting fluid. Also embalming is nor permanent as it only delays the natural process of death. Normally a body can be preserved for a week, but factors such as body temperature and condition of body may affect this process or time of preservation. The storage technique of embalming fluid is that the product is stored in an approved metal cabinet, which helps in the reduction of any fire damage. 

Chemical safety and handling for embalmers:

Embalming chemicals such as formaldehyde, phenol, glycerol, alcohols, glutaraldehyde, and coloring agents can cause respiratory irritation and sensitization. In spite of the fact that glutaraldehyde is an excellent disinfectant, it is not advised for use in mortuaries or post-mortem procedures because it has long been linked to health problems, including dermatitis and respiratory issues. So, it is important to take precautions and handle these chemicals carefully. 

Professional development and continuing education for embalmers:

Here are some colleges that provide educations and courses for Embalming –  

Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science

Dallas Institute of Funeral Service

Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science

FINE Mortuary College

Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service

Worsham College of Mortuary Science

Managing grief and supporting families of the deceased:

The following are some suggestions for how to assist a families of the victims person in the first few days :-

• Contact the bereaved person as soon as possible after the death of their loved one. This contact could take the form of a personal visit, a phone call, a text message, a sympathy card, or flowers.
• If possible, attend the funeral or memorial service. They need to know that you care enough to stand by them during this trying time.
• Offer your assistance and inquire how they would like you to assist them.
• If they want to open up to you, listen to them and try to suspend all judgment.

Funeral home business practices and marketing:

A funeral home marketing plan is the community’s go-to-market strategy for connecting with preneed and at-need families. They connect with consumers via both digital and physical marketing channels, but the funeral homes must first determine the best marketing mix for the target market.

One of the primary goals of funeral service providers is to make arrangements to honor the deceased in accordance with the wishes of the bereaved family. Funeral homes embalm the deceased and perform other preparations such as dressing a body for a wake. Some less obvious target customers for funeral homes include: Individuals who are organizing their own funerals. These groups are in addition to the elderly and those who have recently lost a loved one. people who are organizing funerals for friends or family. people who are employed by the death care sector.

Communication and interpersonal skills for embalmers:

Here are some of the communication skills that an Embalmer must  have –

 

1. To listen carefully for every instruction and do cross questioning. 
2. Understand every information that’s been provided.
3. Must understand the work related material. 
4.  Have a clear vocabulary so that it is easy for the listeners to understand. 
5. Must understand the written information. 
6. Must have a clear handwriting so that the readers do not find difficulty in understanding.

Historical and cultural perspectives on embalming:

• The Egyptians invented embalming around 3200 B.C. because they believed religious resurrection could only occur if bodies were preserved intact. It is considered “one of humankind’s oldest practices.” 
• Mummification refers to the ancient Egyptians’ methods of embalming or treating the dead body. The Egyptians used special processes to remove all moisture from the body, leaving only a dried form that would not decay.
• Today, embalming is a common practice in North America, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, but it is much less common in many parts of Europe; most modern countries have embalming available in some form.

Embalming in the context of green burials and environmentally friendly practices:

Traditional burial procedures are harmful to the environment because they use dangerous chemicals, non-biodegradable materials that are frequently ecologically barren due to fertilizer use. The term “green burial” refers to burial procedures that have a low environmental impact. If you would like burial to cremation, there is a way to reduce the environmental impact of the burial. Woodland burials, also known as green or natural burials, are becoming a more popular and environmentally friendly option for funerals. Making the decision not to embalm is a huge step toward a greener funeral. Embalming has no proven environmental or health benefits and is only required by law in exceptional cases, such as interstate movement of the remains or death by contagious disease. Innovations in embalming technology and techniques, such as water-based or bio-based embalming solutions:

Embalming is classified into two types: Arterial embalming and Cavity embalming. Here is the brief discussion of them:

1. Arterial Embalming –  This type of Embalming involves the removal of blood and the restoration of blood with the help of Embalming solution. Tubes are inserted into the body and connected to a machine that directly pumps embalming fluid through the jugular vein in the neck or the femoral vein in the leg, allowing natural body fluids to circulate throughout the body. These are then emptied by a tube put in the femoral or carotid arteries in the neck.
2. Cavity Embalming – This technique involves the removal of natural fluids from the chest and abdomen. A single tube is secured with a tiny slit, and fluids are discharged using a suction machine. Furthermore, these fluids are replaced with an embalming solution before the little incision is shut. 

How to become an Embalmer? 

Even though embalming may not seem like the best career option for some, many people have discovered that it offers job security, a sense of pride, and substantial financial advantages, including an average wage of $15 to $16 per hour.An Embalmer is a trained professional with a specialized set of skills. Embalmer is someone who cleans and preserves bodies before they are buried. They clean the bodies, drain the blood, and replace it with embalming fluid and other preservative chemicals to keep them from deteriorating before funeral services. 

An associate’s degree program is the very minimum education needed to become an embalmer. It typically lasts two years, is a requirement for a degree in mortuary science, and includes pertinent topics including pathology, anatomy, embalming and restorative procedures, physiology, funeral service law, and others.

Education and training requirements for embalmers:

A mortuary science degree from an authorized mortuary science school is required to become an embalmer. The majority of these programs lead to associate’s degrees, while bachelor’s degree programs are also possible.

Here are some of the colleges that provide mortuary science degree and training:

1. Arapahoe Community College
2. Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science
3. Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service
4. Dallas Institute of Funeral Service
5. FINE Mortuary College
6. Mid-America College of Funeral Service

Apprenticeships and internships for embalmers:

If you have made up your mind to become an Embalmer, the first thing is that you have to require either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in mortuary science, preferably from a college or university with American Board of Funeral Service Education accreditation. The average annual wage for an apprentice embalmer in the USA as of Mar. 14, 2023, is $35,049 per year. Also, the amount of salary gets changed accordingly. 

Here are some colleges/universities through which you can get an internship as an Embalmer to upgrade your profile and become a trained Embalmer:

Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science

Mid-America College of Funeral Service

FINE Mortuary College

Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science

Worsham College of Mortuary Science

American Academy McAllister Institute

Dallas Institute of Funeral Service

Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service

Commonwealth Institute-Funeral

Licensing and certification for embalmers:

In order to become a certified embalmer you must complete one year of training under the close supervision of a certified funeral director and embalmer, get an associate’s degree in a mortuary science program, or earn a bachelor’s degree in a mortuary science program, and pass the state board exam. After completing your mortuary science degree and training from an authorized college, you will be provided with the license of an Embalmer. 

Job prospects and career paths for embalmers:

Normally embalmers are appointed or selected in funeral homes/parlors and other funeral service agencies. They can also find job opportunities in mortuaries, hospitals and universities. Also, in today’s digital era a job can be easily available on job sites such as linkedin, indeed etc., if you are planning to be an embalmer you can also find a job through these sites. Embalming is a respected and necessary job in the funeral industry. An embalmer’s job is both demanding and satisfying. Many employees in this field must be available 24 hours. Many embalmers carry a pager and must be available at all times. 

Salaries and benefits for embalmers, Salary ranges for embalmers:

According to some of the recent data, the top 10% of embalmers earn more than $69,900 per year, or $33.61 per hour. Embalmers in the bottom 10% make $23,600 per year, or $11.35 per hour. A mortician or funeral director who works as an embalmer receives a median annual pay of $51,850, or $24.93 per hour.

This salary percentage and data also depends from state to state as each and every state has their own rules and regulations for job profiles. In order to know your state’s salary expectation just go through its mortuary and funeral lows to have an idea. 

Interview Questions asked for embalmers?

Here are top questions that are frequently asked to embalmers:

1. Can you explain the full embalming procedure from beginning to end?
2. How do you evaluate the level of your work?
3. How have you handled clients’ expectations in the past?
4. How do you maintain a balance between your family and career lives?
5. In five years, where do you see yourself?
6. Why do you seek this position?
7. Why are you the best candidate to fill this position?
8. What salary expectations do you have?
9. Why would I hire you?
10. What are your strong points and weak points? 

Future trends and innovations in embalming:

Arsenic was employed as embalming fluid in the 1860s. It was later replaced with formaldehyde, which is still widely used today. Aside from formaldehyde, several funeral houses now offer green embalming, which entails the use of an embalming fluid derived from non-toxic chemicals and essential oils. 

Extreme embalming, also known as inventive embalming, is a technique in which bodies are preserved by injecting them with a chemical solution that renders them completely rigid before being presented in unusual real-life poses. In simple words modern embalming is the process where The embalmer removes gases and fluids from bodily cavities and soft organs and replaces them with disinfecting and preserving chemicals after draining the blood from the circulatory system.

High school courses that can prepare you for embalming:

Here are some of the colleges with appropriate courses that will help you get prepared as an embalmer:

• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
• Amarillo College
• Salt Lake Community College
• St Petersburg College
• Nassau Community College

College degree programs in mortuary science:

Here are some colleges/universities through which you can get a mortuary science degree as an Embalmer and upgrade your profile and become a trained Embalmer:

• Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science
• Mid-America College of Funeral Service
• FINE Mortuary College
• Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science
• Worsham College of Mortuary Science
• American Academy McAllister Institute
• Dallas Institute of Funeral Service
• Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service
• Commonwealth Institute-Funeral

Accredited mortuary science programs:

There are many universities that offer an mortuary science degree program:

Online Mortuary Science Program

Gannon University

American Academy McAllister Institute

Cypress College

University of Minnesota

Required coursework for embalming:

An associate’s degree program is the very minimum education needed to become an embalmer. It typically lasts two years, is a requirement for a degree in mortuary science, and includes pertinent topics including pathology, anatomy, embalming and restorative procedures, physiology, funeral service law, and others.

National Board Exam for Funeral Service:

The Funeral Service exam is divided into two parts, NBE-Arts and NBE-Sciences, and is given separately. Despite the fact that they are given separately, you must pass BOTH tests in order to pass the Funeral Service exam and earn certification.

The NBE is divided into two sections: NBE Arts and NBE Sciences. Each part has 170 multiple-choice questions and 20 non-scored computer-delivered pretest questions. You have 170 minutes per part to respond to all prompts. During the exam, breaks are permitted, but the timer does not stop.

Continuing education requirements for embalmers:

To renew his or her license, each certified funeral director in the United States must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years. Six of the 16 hours are mandatory subjects: Mortuary Law, Ethics, and Vital Statistics regulations and requirements. After reading this the first question that comes to our mind is that what is continuing education for embalmers and the answer to this question is During each pre-renewal term, every funeral director and embalmer renewal candidate must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) relevant to the practice of funeral directing and embalming.

Professional development opportunities for embalmers:

The typical technique of embalming has a single purpose: it slows the decomposition of a dead body, allowing for a burial to be postponed for many days for cosmetic work to be performed on the corpse. Despite the appearances, it is a brutal process, and the corpses continue to disintegrate. As a result, it is one of the most demanding services in today’s modern day. In the field, the natural path is from mortuary science technician to fully licensed embalmer, funeral director, or both. More opportunities for promotion exist with a license. While many people who enter this sector hope to one day run their own funeral homes, there are alternative options. After all these a person can open his/her own funeral homes and will earn a desired amount of money or cost to satisfy his daily necessities. 

Embalming school admissions requirements:

The art and science of caring for the deceased and their loved ones are the main topics of degrees in either mortuary science or funeral services. In addition to significant technical instruction on various anatomical restoration or preservation techniques, these academic programs frequently integrate humanities and science courses that offer insight into death and grieving.At most of the time just a state license, an associate’s degree and completion of an apprenticeship are frequently necessary.

Steps to take after completing embalming education:

• Once you complete your education from an authorized college of mortuary science, you must complete your training under a professional instructure and earn an internship certification because an internship certification is very important to get a professional license as an Embalmer. 
• After you get a license as an trained embalmer you can find a job on any platform such as in funeral homes, hospitals, or also in universities and can earn your living.
• If you don’t want to join any firm you can open your own funeral service home. 

Differences between embalming and funeral directing:

1. Embalming – Embalming is the process through which the body parts are cleaned to get rid of dangerous germs, maintained to slow down natural decomposition processes, and reconstituted to give the person a more human aspect. Embalming cannot completely stop the natural process of decomposition.  Embalming is one method funeral directors use to ensure that public interaction with human remains is possible.
2. Funeral directing – Funeral directing is the process where funeral directors offer comforting support and guidance to the bereaved families and friends, the Funeral Director will supervise, lead, and organize all parts of funeral arrangements, including body preparation, visitation, services, burials, and cremations.

Work environment for embalmers:

Embalmers work primarily indoors. Work outdoors on occasion to move the body or to go with the funeral procession. are frequently subjected to powerful preservatives and chemicals. are frequently exposed to risky situations.Embalmers are typically employed by funeral homes and other funeral service providers. Embalmers can also find work at hospitals, mortuaries, and universities.They work Monday through Friday for 40 hours a week. Although they often work in shifts, their work schedule can vary depending on how many funerals there are.

Opportunities for advancement in the embalming field:

 

Three objectives are achieved through embalming: cleaning, preservation, and restoration. The body parts are cleaned to get rid of any dangerous germs, maintained to slow down natural decay, and reconstituted to give the person a more human aspect. There are many opportunities that are waiting as a mortician as it is the most demanded and respectful job for today’s time. Though for some people it is not a good job as it is a job that requires most of your time and for a family person it becomes very difficult to manage and balance both work life and family. But if you are planning to open your own funeral service, it is a very good opportunity for you to grow and have a healthy and successful life with good earnings.