Embalming Equipment: Machines, Instruments, and Preparation Room Setup

Embalming Equipment: Machines, Instruments, and Preparation Room Setup

Before any embalming case begins, the preparator must know every piece of equipment in the room by name, understand its function, and confirm that the space meets the facility's infection-control standard. Competence with equipment is not optional—it protects you, coworkers, and the families you serve, and it is tested on the National Board Examination.

The Arterial Injection Machine

The arterial injection machine (also called an embalming machine or injection machine) pumps embalming solution through the arterial system. It consists of a fluid reservoir, a pump, a pressure gauge, a rate-of-flow control, and connecting tubing. Two settings govern every injection:

• Pressure (measured in pounds per square inch, psi): determines the force pushing solution into the vessels. Pressure must be set to match the condition of the case—a typical starting point is moderate pressure, adjusted upward for difficult distribution and downward for fragile or edematous tissue. Never exceed the pressure recommended by your chemical manufacturer or your instructor for a given condition.
• Rate of flow (measured in ounces per minute): determines how fast solution enters the body. A slower rate allows better diffusion; a faster rate moves solution through quickly when distribution is the priority.

Assembly steps: attach the intake hose to the reservoir, connect the outflow hose to the arterial tube, tighten all fittings, confirm the power switch is off before plugging in, then set pressure and rate to zero before starting. Always prime the line to clear air before connecting to the body.

The Aspirator and Hydroaspirator

The aspirator creates suction to remove gases, liquids, and semi-solid matter from body cavities during cavity embalming. Electric aspirators use a pump motor; the hydroaspirator (also called a water-jet aspirator) attaches to a water faucet and creates suction through the Venturi principle—water flowing through a narrow jet draws surrounding air and fluid with it. Both are used with the trocar. After use, flush the aspirator thoroughly to prevent blockage and cross-contamination.

Trocars and Cavity Work

The trocar is a long, hollow, pointed instrument used to puncture body cavities, aspirate contents, and inject cavity fluid. It connects to the aspirator for removal and to a gravity or pump source for injection. Trocars come in several diameters; select the appropriate size for the case. Handle trocars with extreme caution—the pointed tip is a significant sharps hazard. Never recap or carry a trocar with the point exposed and unguarded.

Arterial Tubes and Drain Tubes

Arterial tubes (also called injection tubes or cannulas) are inserted into the artery to deliver embalming solution. They vary in diameter and length to fit different vessels. Drain tubes (vein tubes or drainage instruments) are inserted into the vein to allow blood and solution to exit the body during injection. Proper placement of both instruments at a raising site—commonly the right common carotid artery and internal jugular vein—is fundamental to good distribution and drainage. After use, all metal tubes must be cleaned and sterilized per facility protocol.

Scalpel Handles and Blades

A scalpel handle accepts disposable blades of varying sizes. The scalpel is used to make incisions for vessel raising and for restorative work. Mount and remove blades only with a hemostat or a blade-removal device—never use bare fingers. Dispose of used blades immediately in a puncture-resistant sharps container.

Aneurysm Needles

The aneurysm needle (also called an aneurysm hook) is a blunt-tipped instrument with a curved or straight hook used to dissect, separate, and elevate blood vessels from surrounding tissue without cutting them. It is an essential instrument for vessel raising and helps reduce accidental nicks to the vessel wall.

Additional Hand Instruments

A complete instrument tray also includes hemostats (locking clamps for vessels and tissue), scissors, forceps, and vessel directors. Each instrument has a specific role; knowing them by name and function is required for the equipment identification checklist.

Preparation Room Setup: Infection-Control Standard

The preparation room must be set up before the deceased is brought in. Follow this sequence:

1. Don PPE first. Gloves, gown or apron, eye protection, and mask must be in place before handling any instrument or body. This is non-negotiable.

2. Inspect the room. Confirm surfaces are clean and disinfected from any prior case. Check that the floor drain is clear.

3. Position equipment. Place the arterial machine at the head of the table, aspirator within reach of the trocar operator, and instrument tray within arm's reach.

4. Prepare chemical solutions. Mix arterial and cavity chemicals according to manufacturer directions in clearly labeled containers. Never mix chemicals in unlabeled containers.

5. Lay out instruments in logical order. Group scalpels, aneurysm needles, arterial and drain tubes, hemostats, and other instruments so each is accessible in the sequence of use.

6. Confirm sharps disposal. A puncture-resistant sharps container must be open and positioned before any blade is mounted.

7. Verify ventilation. Preparation rooms must maintain adequate airflow per OSHA standards for formaldehyde exposure. Confirm exhaust ventilation is operating.

Safety Summary

• Never operate the injection machine without confirming all connections are secure—a loose fitting under pressure can spray fluid.
• Treat every instrument as potentially contaminated. PPE is required from entry to exit.
• Formaldehyde is a regulated chemical with established exposure limits. Work in a ventilated room, use appropriate PPE, and follow your facility's chemical hygiene plan.
• Report any sharps injury immediately following your facility's exposure-control plan.