ANA 222 ASSIGNMENT
1. Notes on the following:
a. Funeral Directing
Funeral directing is the professional management and coordination of all aspects of a
funeral service. A funeral director (also known as an undertaker or mortician) is
responsible for organizing, overseeing, and performing tasks related to the preparation of
the deceased and the comfort of the bereaved family. These tasks include:
- Arranging for the transportation of the deceased.
- Coordinating with religious or cultural leaders.
- Preparing legal documents such as death certificates and burial permits.
- Organizing wakes, viewings, and memorial services.
- Advising families on funeral products and procedures.
The funeral director also ensures that cultural, religious, and personal preferences of the
family and deceased are respected throughout the process.
b. Dressing of the Deceased According to Culture, Profession, and Status
The attire of the deceased often reflects their identity, background, and societal status. This
practice varies across cultures:
Cultural Considerations:
- In Yoruba culture, the deceased may be dressed in traditional agbada or iro and buba.
- In Islamic tradition, the deceased is usually wrapped in a simple white shroud (kafan).
- In Christian funerals, the dead are often dressed in formal or favorite clothing.
Profession:
- A soldier may be buried in uniform.
- A clergy member might be dressed in clerical garments.
- A medical professional may be dressed in a white lab coat if requested by the family.
Status:
- Prominent community figures may have elaborate dressing and accessories, reflecting
their prestige.
- Some families may include medals, jewelry, or cultural symbols to signify rank or
achievements.
c. Cosmetizing
Cosmetizing refers to the application of cosmetics to restore a natural and peaceful
appearance to the deceased, especially for open-casket viewings. This process helps mask
signs of illness, trauma, or decomposition.
Steps include:
- Cleaning the face and body.
- Using foundation to even out skin tone.
- Applying blush and lip color for a lifelike appearance.
- Styling hair and grooming nails.
It provides emotional relief for the family by preserving the dignity and memory of their
loved one.
d. Arranging for Burials
This involves making all necessary preparations for the burial of the deceased. It includes:
- Selecting a burial site or cemetery plot.
- Coordinating with cemetery staff for digging and closing the grave.
- Preparing caskets or burial vessels.
- Organizing the funeral procession.
- Handling permits and legal documentation.
- Planning and conducting the burial service (prayers, eulogies, music, etc.)
The burial arrangements may be influenced by religious beliefs, family traditions, and
financial capability.
2. Explanations:
(i) Clinical Funeral Service and Restoration Art
Clinical Funeral Service refers to the medically-informed and professional approach to the
care of the deceased. It includes scientific embalming techniques, preservation, sanitization,
and hygienic handling of the body, especially when infectious diseases or trauma are
involved.
Restoration Art is the specialized technique of reconstructing disfigured or decomposed
bodies to restore a natural appearance. This may include:
- Wax reconstruction of facial parts.
- Use of prosthetics or mortuary putty.
- Repainting features (eyebrows, eyelashes, etc.)
- Dental and cranial restoration in severe trauma cases.
These services allow the family to have a dignified farewell.
(ii) Anatomy and Clinical Funeurology, Including Human Perspective to Clinical
Funeral Service and Restoration
Anatomy and Clinical Funeurology combine the study of human body structure (anatomy)
with funeral science. It emphasizes understanding body systems, decomposition, trauma
effects, and embalming impact. This knowledge is used to:
- Perform precise arterial embalming.
- Identify best injection sites (like carotid or femoral arteries).
- Understand organ placement for cavity treatment and drainage.
Human Perspective to Clinical Funeral Service and Restoration involves empathy, cultural
sensitivity, and psychological support to grieving families. It includes:
- Honoring the dignity of the deceased.
- Providing comfort and closure to loved ones.
- Respecting spiritual and cultural values.
- Upholding ethical principles in handling human remains.
This holistic approach integrates science, compassion, and respect.
