PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II Midterm Exam | 2026/2027
PRINCIPLES OF EMBALMING II
PHT 313
MIDTERM EXAMINATION
2026/2027 Academic Year
Mortuary Science Program | Funeral Service Education Accredited Curriculum
Exam Format: 50 Multiple-Choice Questions
Testing Time: Approximately 90 Minutes
Passing Score: 75–80% (per program policy)
Prerequisite: PHT 312 – Principles of Embalming I
Standards: ABFSE Accreditation & State Board Requirements
PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II | Midterm Exam Practice | Page 1
, PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II Midterm Exam | 2026/2027
Introduction
This PHT 313 Principles of Embalming II Midterm Exam practice format for 2026/2027 reflects
a comprehensive competency assessment designed to evaluate proficiency in intermediate-to-
advanced embalming principles for mortuary science students. The exam measures knowledge of
advanced arterial injection techniques, cavity embalming procedures, special case management
strategies, restorative art applications, embalming chemistry, drainage methodologies, infection
control protocols, case analysis, and legal/ethical responsibilities essential for safe, effective, and
compliant embalming practice. The 50-question format provides exact coverage of high-yield midterm
domains for study, preparation, and technical mastery purposes, aligned with ABFSE accreditation
standards and current state board requirements.
All 50 questions are presented in multiple-choice format with single best-answer selections.
Each question includes a verified correct answer highlighted in bold green, followed by a detailed
rationale explaining the clinical reasoning, chemical principles, and regulatory basis for each answer
selection. Content spans the full scope of the PHT 313 curriculum, from foundational embalming
chemistry calculations to complex scenario-based clinical judgment scenarios.
Core Domains Assessed
Advanced Arterial Embalming Techniques: Multi-point injection, restricted cervical, six-
point, and split injection methods with case-specific indications and procedural considerations.
Cavity Embalming Procedures: Aspiration protocol, chemical selection, trocar placement,
gas management, and purge prevention strategies.
Special Case Management: Autopsy, trauma, edema, emaciation, jaundice, and
decomposition cases with tailored treatment approaches.
Restorative Art Fundamentals: Wax modeling, suturing techniques, feature setting, color
restoration, and structural reconstruction principles.
Embalming Chemistry: Index/potency calculations, co-injections, pre-injections,
humectants, water conditioners, and surfactant applications.
Drainage Methods: Concurrent, intermittent, alternate, and closed drainage techniques with
vascular resistance considerations.
Infection Control & OSHA Compliance: Bloodborne pathogen standards (29 CFR
1910.1030), PPE requirements, sharps disposal, and surface decontamination.
Case Analysis & Treatment Planning: Pre-embalming assessment, chemical dilution
calculations, documentation standards, and outcome evaluation.
Legal/Ethical Responsibilities: Embalming authorization, family communication,
professional standards, and regulatory compliance.
PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II | Midterm Exam Practice | Page 2
, PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II Midterm Exam | 2026/2027
PHT 313 Midterm Practice Questions
Complete Question Set: 50 Items | Verified Answers with Detailed Rationales
1. Which arterial injection method is MOST appropriate for a case with severe facial
trauma requiring localized treatment?
A. One-point injection via right common carotid
B. Restricted cervical injection with separate head/hand solutions
C. Six-point injection with individual vessel cannulation
D. Femoral artery injection only
Answer: B. Restricted cervical injection with separate head/hand solutions
Rationale: Restricted cervical injection allows independent control of head and body solutions,
enabling stronger index for traumatized facial areas while using milder solution for the torso. Six-
point injection (C) is more invasive and typically reserved for advanced decomposition or extreme
edema; one-point (A) lacks localized control; femoral-only (D) provides inadequate distribution for
facial trauma.
2. What is the primary purpose of a pre-injection fluid in embalming chemistry?
A. To provide strong preservation for decomposition cases
B. To condition tissues, improve distribution, and reduce resistance to the primary solution
C. To replace the need for cavity embalming
D. To restore natural skin coloration
Answer: B. To condition tissues, improve distribution, and reduce resistance to the
primary solution
Rationale: Pre-injection fluids contain surfactants, humectants, and mild preservatives that prepare
vascular channels, reduce coagulation, and enhance penetration of the primary arterial solution.
They do not replace cavity treatment (C), provide strong preservation alone (A), or primarily restore
color (D)—that is the role of co-injections or dyes.
3. During cavity embalming, which organ is typically aspirated FIRST?
A. Stomach
B. Lungs
C. Urinary bladder
D. Heart
Answer: B. Lungs
Rationale: Standard cavity embalming protocol begins with lung aspiration to remove fluids/gases
that could cause purge or distension. The trocar is inserted at the umbilicus, directed toward the
right lung apex first, then left lung, followed by abdominal organs. This sequence minimizes risk of
post-embalming leakage.
4. A case presents with generalized edema. Which chemical adjustment is MOST
appropriate?
A. Use a low-index fluid with high humectant content
B. Use a high-index fluid with water conditioner and possibly a dehydrating co-injection
C. Omit arterial injection and rely solely on cavity treatment
D. Inject undiluted formaldehyde directly
Answer: B. Use a high-index fluid with water conditioner and possibly a dehydrating co-
injection
Rationale: Edematous cases require stronger preservation (high-index fluid) to overcome tissue
dilution, water conditioners to manage fluid balance, and potentially dehydrating agents (e.g.,
alcohol-based co-injections) to reduce excess moisture. Low-index fluids (A) would be insufficient;
omitting arterial injection (C) compromises preservation; undiluted formaldehyde (D) causes tissue
damage and is unsafe.
5. Which suture technique is BEST for closing an autopsy Y-incision?
PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II | Midterm Exam Practice | Page 3
PRINCIPLES OF EMBALMING II
PHT 313
MIDTERM EXAMINATION
2026/2027 Academic Year
Mortuary Science Program | Funeral Service Education Accredited Curriculum
Exam Format: 50 Multiple-Choice Questions
Testing Time: Approximately 90 Minutes
Passing Score: 75–80% (per program policy)
Prerequisite: PHT 312 – Principles of Embalming I
Standards: ABFSE Accreditation & State Board Requirements
PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II | Midterm Exam Practice | Page 1
, PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II Midterm Exam | 2026/2027
Introduction
This PHT 313 Principles of Embalming II Midterm Exam practice format for 2026/2027 reflects
a comprehensive competency assessment designed to evaluate proficiency in intermediate-to-
advanced embalming principles for mortuary science students. The exam measures knowledge of
advanced arterial injection techniques, cavity embalming procedures, special case management
strategies, restorative art applications, embalming chemistry, drainage methodologies, infection
control protocols, case analysis, and legal/ethical responsibilities essential for safe, effective, and
compliant embalming practice. The 50-question format provides exact coverage of high-yield midterm
domains for study, preparation, and technical mastery purposes, aligned with ABFSE accreditation
standards and current state board requirements.
All 50 questions are presented in multiple-choice format with single best-answer selections.
Each question includes a verified correct answer highlighted in bold green, followed by a detailed
rationale explaining the clinical reasoning, chemical principles, and regulatory basis for each answer
selection. Content spans the full scope of the PHT 313 curriculum, from foundational embalming
chemistry calculations to complex scenario-based clinical judgment scenarios.
Core Domains Assessed
Advanced Arterial Embalming Techniques: Multi-point injection, restricted cervical, six-
point, and split injection methods with case-specific indications and procedural considerations.
Cavity Embalming Procedures: Aspiration protocol, chemical selection, trocar placement,
gas management, and purge prevention strategies.
Special Case Management: Autopsy, trauma, edema, emaciation, jaundice, and
decomposition cases with tailored treatment approaches.
Restorative Art Fundamentals: Wax modeling, suturing techniques, feature setting, color
restoration, and structural reconstruction principles.
Embalming Chemistry: Index/potency calculations, co-injections, pre-injections,
humectants, water conditioners, and surfactant applications.
Drainage Methods: Concurrent, intermittent, alternate, and closed drainage techniques with
vascular resistance considerations.
Infection Control & OSHA Compliance: Bloodborne pathogen standards (29 CFR
1910.1030), PPE requirements, sharps disposal, and surface decontamination.
Case Analysis & Treatment Planning: Pre-embalming assessment, chemical dilution
calculations, documentation standards, and outcome evaluation.
Legal/Ethical Responsibilities: Embalming authorization, family communication,
professional standards, and regulatory compliance.
PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II | Midterm Exam Practice | Page 2
, PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II Midterm Exam | 2026/2027
PHT 313 Midterm Practice Questions
Complete Question Set: 50 Items | Verified Answers with Detailed Rationales
1. Which arterial injection method is MOST appropriate for a case with severe facial
trauma requiring localized treatment?
A. One-point injection via right common carotid
B. Restricted cervical injection with separate head/hand solutions
C. Six-point injection with individual vessel cannulation
D. Femoral artery injection only
Answer: B. Restricted cervical injection with separate head/hand solutions
Rationale: Restricted cervical injection allows independent control of head and body solutions,
enabling stronger index for traumatized facial areas while using milder solution for the torso. Six-
point injection (C) is more invasive and typically reserved for advanced decomposition or extreme
edema; one-point (A) lacks localized control; femoral-only (D) provides inadequate distribution for
facial trauma.
2. What is the primary purpose of a pre-injection fluid in embalming chemistry?
A. To provide strong preservation for decomposition cases
B. To condition tissues, improve distribution, and reduce resistance to the primary solution
C. To replace the need for cavity embalming
D. To restore natural skin coloration
Answer: B. To condition tissues, improve distribution, and reduce resistance to the
primary solution
Rationale: Pre-injection fluids contain surfactants, humectants, and mild preservatives that prepare
vascular channels, reduce coagulation, and enhance penetration of the primary arterial solution.
They do not replace cavity treatment (C), provide strong preservation alone (A), or primarily restore
color (D)—that is the role of co-injections or dyes.
3. During cavity embalming, which organ is typically aspirated FIRST?
A. Stomach
B. Lungs
C. Urinary bladder
D. Heart
Answer: B. Lungs
Rationale: Standard cavity embalming protocol begins with lung aspiration to remove fluids/gases
that could cause purge or distension. The trocar is inserted at the umbilicus, directed toward the
right lung apex first, then left lung, followed by abdominal organs. This sequence minimizes risk of
post-embalming leakage.
4. A case presents with generalized edema. Which chemical adjustment is MOST
appropriate?
A. Use a low-index fluid with high humectant content
B. Use a high-index fluid with water conditioner and possibly a dehydrating co-injection
C. Omit arterial injection and rely solely on cavity treatment
D. Inject undiluted formaldehyde directly
Answer: B. Use a high-index fluid with water conditioner and possibly a dehydrating co-
injection
Rationale: Edematous cases require stronger preservation (high-index fluid) to overcome tissue
dilution, water conditioners to manage fluid balance, and potentially dehydrating agents (e.g.,
alcohol-based co-injections) to reduce excess moisture. Low-index fluids (A) would be insufficient;
omitting arterial injection (C) compromises preservation; undiluted formaldehyde (D) causes tissue
damage and is unsafe.
5. Which suture technique is BEST for closing an autopsy Y-incision?
PHT 313 – Principles of Embalming II | Midterm Exam Practice | Page 3
