North Carolina Funeral Law Practice Exam

According to state funeral law, what must an embalmer wear while preparing human remains?

1. Standard clothing

2. Smock and protective gloves

3. Face mask and steam apron

4. Disposable coveralls

The correct answer is: Smock and protective gloves

In the context of preparing human remains, the embalmer must prioritize safety, hygiene, and the prevention of contamination. Wearing a smock and protective gloves serves to create a barrier between the embalmer and the bodily fluids that may be present during the preparation process. This is crucial not only for the health and safety of the embalmer but also to comply with health regulations, which emphasize the importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling potentially infectious materials. Standard clothing does not provide the necessary protections needed in a mortuary setting, and while a face mask and steam apron or disposable coveralls may offer certain benefits, they are not the established standard attire recommended for this specific procedure. The combination of a smock and protective gloves is therefore the most suitable and compliant choice in the context of state funeral laws regarding embalming practices.