Dealing with Maggots, Mold, and Plaster in Forensic Investigations

How is a colostomy defined?

A surgical procedure involving the insertion of a drainage tube
The application of a compress to the skin surface
The opening of the colon through the abdominal wall to the skin surface (correct)
The closing of an incision using glue

What is the purpose of applying a compress of cavity fluid or phenol solution after a colostomy?

To close the incision with glue
To prevent leakage of the colostomy bag
To insert a purse-string suture
To disinfect the area around the stoma (correct)

What can effectively close a colostomy, according to the text?

A purse-string suture (correct)
A plastic garment
An adhesive bandage
A sponge dressing

Why are surgical drains placed postsurgically?

To prevent accumulation of blood, pus, and infected fluids (A) Signup and view all the answers

What additional treatments can be applied after embalming for discolorations and ulcerations?

Bleaching for cosmetic purposes (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with maggots on a deceased individual?

Not knowing if all have been found and removed (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which method is recommended for removing mold growth on a deceased individual in warm climates?

Using a scalpel or spatula to carefully remove the mold, followed by chemical treatment (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of suture is used to conceal the thread and knot at the end of an incision closure?

Single intradermal (hidden) suture (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of placing embalming powder inside plastic garments during the embalming process?

To absorb excess moisture and prevent mold growth (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which embalming method is used specifically for reaching and treating facial tissues?

Hypodermic embalming (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in post-embalming treatments?

Disposal of the embalmed body (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of hypodermic embalming?

To treat areas that were not adequately preserved during arterial embalming (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in the post-embalming treatment process?

Removal of maggots (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of applying plastic garments during post-embalming treatments?

To conceal any remaining incisions or discolorations (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a step in post-embalming treatments?

Treatment of mold (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the ways to treat swellings such as edema during embalming?

Specific arterial solutions during arterial injection (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to document any swellings present before arterial injection on the Embalming and Decedent Care Report?

To maintain a record of the conditions observed during embalming (A) Signup and view all the answers

What can cause distension of facial tissues, neck, or glandular tissues during embalming?

Excessive amount of arterial solution in these tissues (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recommended practice prior to closing an incision?

Suture immediately after cavity aspiration to maintain pressure (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should an embalmer be alert to during the embalming process to avoid tissue distension?

Use of excessive massage or weak arterial solutions (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using a cautery solution and cotton compress within the incision before closing?

To prevent purge and distention (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be avoided when using a machine injection and trocar?

Phenol products (D) Signup and view all the answers

What could be a potential cause of distension in tissues surrounding the eye orbit during embalming?

Breakdown of capillaries due to trauma or decomposition (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended method for sealing punctures in non-viewable areas where an infant trocar or hypovalve trocar has been used?

Use a trocar button (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following garments can be used when treating large areas with hypodermic injection or applying embalming powder or autopsy gel?

All of the above (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about unionalls is correct?

A unionall is a plastic garment used to cover the entire body except the neck and head. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using absorbent powders during the embalming process?

To control leakage, mold growth, and odor. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good disinfectant, as mentioned in the text?

Is highly toxic to living tissues and injurious to the respiratory system. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following steps is NOT mentioned in the text regarding terminal disinfection practices?

Treating the embalming machine with a disinfectant solution. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended practice for selecting the size of a plastic garment, as mentioned in the text?

Use a garment slightly larger than necessary. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What technique is recommended for ensuring closure of the mouth and eyes when tissues are firm?

Applying super adhesive glue (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to thoroughly dry the body after bathing?

To eliminate the potential for mold growth (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of applying a plastic garment to the body before dressing?

To prevent leakage and contain odors (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plastic garment is recommended for coverage of the full lower extremities?

Capri garment (A) Signup and view all the answers

When should the body be thoroughly dried before applying a plastic garment?

Always, regardless of the condition of the body (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plastic garment is recommended for covering broken skin on the arms or elbows?

Plastic sleeves (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should be applied to the face and hands after bathing and drying the body?

A massage cream or spray (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of covering the face with a layer of plastic sheeting?

To decrease surface evaporation (B) Signup and view all the answers

When should plastic stockings be used on the legs?

After surface treatment of the legs (B) Signup and view all the answers

What type of garment is recommended for covering the trunk when there is leakage from orifices, ulcerations, or traumatic injuries?

Plastic pants or coveralls (B) Signup and view all the answers