In Search of Perfect Embalmment Scoring Tool

Abstract

Background: Scoring systems for tissue preservation and embalmment can be likened to trauma scoring systems for their pivotal roles in healthcare institutions for evaluation and auditing purposes. Albeit, embalmment cannot always guarantee exact ante-mortem state, the present study was designed to validate the scoring tool that had been developed in appropriating medical and social needs of embalming practices. Methods: The study was one-year hospital-based using the standardized forms A, B and C of ‘Relative’s Perspective Scale of Embalmment’ for data collection. ‘Form A’ was self-explanatory and scored by the relatives of the dead. ‘Form B’ was handled by mortuary director, likewise ‘Form C’ for auditing. Reliability and descriptive statistics were applied to report the validation outcome data for the Likert-styled Form A. The hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. Results: Only 94 out of 129 bodies released within a year were deemed fit for the study (amounting to 73% of the bodies) due to exclusion criteria. Cronbach’s alpha reliability score of 0.710 (Acceptable) was recorded. Descriptive statistics further showed mode 33, median 33.5, range 19-45, mean 34.2±6.9 and response score of 76%. Assertion Q8 in Form A was the most reliable. Conclusion: Offensive odour from the embalming centre needed to be addressed. Final validatory judgement ‘RPSE-D’ interpreted ‘Improve on mortuary operation’ rightly projected this scoring tool for evidence based embalmment. Some modification exercises suggested because of commercial venture of the mortuary in order to encourage more patronage and consequential acquisition of cadavers for research and medical education.