The undertakers' manual

The manual provides practical, scientific guidance for undertaking and embalming, combining anatomical and physiological explanation with step-by-step procedures for preserving bodies. It describes laboratory preparation, chemicals and instruments, arterial and maceration embalming techniques (including several named processes), post-mortem examination, causes and stages of decay, and special cases such as poisoning. Chapters cover animal chemistry, sanitation, legal and managerial duties, and recommended reforms in funerary practice. Intended for undertakers and assistants, it links underlying scientific principles to operative instructions so practitioners can choose and apply appropriate methods to prolong preservation and manage an undertaking establishment.