What are the three supplemental fluid categories in embalming?

The three supplemental fluid categories in embalming are co-injection, pre-injection, and humectants.

Co-injection fluids are designed to work in conjunction with the arterial fluid during the embalming process to enhance preservation, improve tissue hydration, or assist in dyeing the tissues. They can provide additional properties that support the primary embalming solution, making it more effective in various situations.

Pre-injection fluids are administered before the arterial embalming solution. These fluids typically contain chemicals that prepare the tissues to better receive the embalming chemicals. They can help clear blood from the vascular system, reduce discoloration, and improve tissue condition by softening the tissues prior to injection.

Humectants play a key role in retaining moisture in the tissues. In embalming, this is crucial for maintaining a natural appearance and preventing the tissues from drying out excessively post-embalming. Humectants can attract and hold water, which is essential for reducing the likelihood of tissue shrinkage and promoting a more lifelike appearance.

This combination of co-injection, pre-injection, and humectants helps to create a more complete and effective embalming process, catering to the specific needs of the body being embalmed. The other options, while they contain