Massachusetts Funeral Director Practice Exam

What is the primary function of cavity fluid in the embalming process?

1. To enhance color

2. To preserve tissue

3. To prevent gases from forming

4. To mask odors

The correct answer is: To prevent gases from forming

The primary function of cavity fluid in the embalming process is to preserve tissue. Cavity fluid is specifically formulated to penetrate and preserve the body’s internal organs after the arterial embalming process is completed. This fluid, which typically contains formaldehyde, methanol, and other chemicals, is injected directly into the body cavities to help achieve maximum preservation and disinfection of internal structures. While cavity fluid may also contribute in various ways to the embalming process, its main purpose is tissue preservation. This ensures that the body is well prepared for a viewing or funeral, maintaining the body's appearance and delaying decomposition. The other functions, such as preventing gases from forming and masking odors, are secondary benefits that come as a result of the preservation process but are not the primary role of cavity fluid.