SN and Funerary Condition?

[limpingtowardfreedom]

I understand that SN tinges the blood and thus skin pretty visibly blue or muddy brown. Is this something that would clear out during the embalming process, or is it permanent? It is my hope to have a 'green burial' that avoids embalming as well, so that may further complicate matters cleanup-wise too. I know there is a generic thread about some portions of the funerary process that was linked in a similar topic some time ago, but it didn't have many answers in regards to the specific changes caused by SN application. Are there any photographs of SN-method corpses available?

I find the discoloration kind of fascinating and maybe even cool if it comes out right, but I expect it would more likely be ghoulish and unpleasant-looking, and upsetting to family members and the like even if it did have a cool look, so I want to know a little more of what to expect.

 

[GoodPersonEffed]

Use the site search for mortuary and SN. Or go back to the generic thread and find posts by the OP, the SN thread was what inspired the generic thread.

 

[Quarky00]

Is this something that would clear out during the embalming process, or is it permanent?

Both of these things are correct . It will "clear out" after the embalming process -- because that involves a later different process of painting over the body ; however the blue discoloration remains . It will not be visible . It will be hidden . That's for open casket .

It is my hope to have a 'green burial' that avoids embalming as well, so that may further complicate matters cleanup-wise too.

With 'green burials' there is no open casket since the body is not chemically treated . So you don't have to worry about how you look . The body will sit in a freezer and since it won't be painted and it will decay outside , it cannot be presented (at a wake or something ) . It is instead incorporated later in various ways into the ground , ocean , etc . So I don't see any reason why one would worry about looking 'blueish' if they are not to be seen ... However poisoning may not suit some funeral homes that are performing these green burials . SN is of no danger to wild life (see research) but I assume manager would be reluctant to do that .


Body Preparation -- Embalbming / Open Casket

It's becoming out of touch and embalming is usually for religious reasons as well! Older generations (think about 45+) want the "stereotypical" package of an embalming and service. In Christian and Catholic families it's almost mandatory to do embalming's as it's a very traditional thing to do. But with costs going up, younger people prefer cremation. The whole process has deeply religious roots as embalming has been observed in other cultures for a very long time, such as an Egyptian Mummy! It's not something that's for everyone, it's evolving from being status quo to optional. Buuut if you have a casket viewing, it's kinda mandatory

hi! i actually used to work at a funeral home, so i hope i could ease your worries!

before the viewing a (or sometimes a few!) mortician will prep your body to be embalmed. how the process works is that the mortician will make a small incision in the clavicle and cut the right carotid artery (and eventually tie it off) and use an instrument called a trocar to drain the rest of your body (such as waste in the stomach) to drain you of fluids. then, the formaldehyde is pumped through the carotid artery and spreads throughout your bloodstream, causing your body to gain the appearance of being alive.

the body is washed/disinfected, eye caps are places under the lids to keep them closed, and the jaw is either wired or stapled shut.

after that comes the visual prep, morticians are very delicate in their practice and want to make you, well, you. the hair is cut and styled (usually based upon the photo they use for your memorial service), face is shaved if applicable, and then comes the makeup process.

the makeup they use is very heavy, almost paint like. you know those 2005 teen jokes with the matte mouse makeup?? think like that. the makeup is used to bring more life into the deceased and coverup anything unwanted, may it be on the request of the living, deceased, or just in respect. the bruises around your neck would certainly be covered. some morticians can even reassemble a whole skull! their trained professionals, and they'll make you look perfect, so don't be afraid

i hope this helped!