Did you know? Archives

A Laboratory’s Response to Formalin Spills

August 25, 2020January 30, 2017

Air ventilation is often the first thought when considering formalin safety, but what is the protocol for liquid spills? Even the most steady-handed pathologist can encounter accidental spills. Skin contact with the spill can result in allergic reactions, blistering, and hives among other symptoms. If skin does come in contact, immediately rinse with water and a mild detergent for a minimum of 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical attention right away. It is critical for every facility to have a clearly …

Risk of Disease Transmission during an Autopsy

August 25, 2020January 17, 2017

Risk of transmission of disease and illness during post-mortem examinations is a serious and ever-growing concern in laboratories across the world. With proper protective wear and clean up measures, autopsy professionals need not to worry. Medical Examiners are to take utmost precaution while performing autopsies on potential infectious cadavers. There are numerous ways in which disease could be spread. Predominantly airborne illnesses, such as Tuberculosis, can be transmitted as an aerosol from bone cutting dust. In addition to using a …

Considering Purchasing a Used Morgue Refrigerator?

August 25, 2020December 1, 2016

When purchasing a morgue cooler, it is imperative to consider more than just the cost associated. Investing in a new or used mortuary cooling unit is a significant decision that can have a great impact on your finances and cooler functionality over the next several years. Previously owned body cooling systems are considerably less expensive than new equipment; however, a used fridge will certainly not be as reliable as a new unit. When considering a previously owned refrigeration unit, you should ask yourself the …

The Difference between a Coroner and a Medical Examiner

August 25, 2020November 14, 2016

Did you know coroners and medical examiners are generally characterized as two different occupations? They both play a vital role in death investigations, but they each hold different qualifications and responsibilities. Each state has their own system in place for examining a questionable death. It is fairly universal that any deaths revolving around injury, poisoning, unexpected circumstances, in-custody situations, or unusual conditions be further investigated. Some jurisdictions follow a coroner system, some a medical examiner system and others utilize both. …

4 Ways to Donate after Death

August 25, 2020October 28, 2016

Donate your organs and tissue to those in medical need With over 100,000 people on the U.S. waiting list for organs, this is a sure way to give back. Your donation could save up to 8 lives, and that’s quite a number when 22 people die each day waiting for a transplant. Learn more at http://organdonor.gov Give your body to a medical school for studies Doctors, dentists and other medical professionals rely on their hands-on training in anatomy labs to …

5 Tools Necessary for an Autopsy

August 25, 2020September 22, 2016

1. Bone Saw With 206 bones in the body, a pathologist is sure to need a quality saw. Gigli saws provide smooth level cuts, while powered saws offer precise cuts on the cranial cap. It’s a best precaution to utilize a bone dust vacuum while performing autopsies with an electric saw. This eliminates the risk of possible airborne contaminated fragments. 2. Scalpel Very similar to the surgeon’s tool, the scalpels used in autopsies are often longer to allow for deeper cuts while …

Bariatric Challenges and Solutions

August 25, 2020September 13, 2016

It’s a growing concern that continues to gather strength. According to the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention almost 38 percent of American adults are affected by obesity. The national epidemic has resulted in enormous implications for our health care system as manufacturers adjust to the demands of a heavier population. As America grows, cadaver size and weight presents its own set of challenges. A 28-year veteran in the pathology and mortuary industries, Mopec Vice President of Engineering Max …

Religious Beliefs and Anatomic Dissections

August 25, 2020August 17, 2016

Conflict often rises when the ideas and beliefs of religions oppose autopsies and anatomic dissections. Many doctrines do not explicitly outline the process of postmortem examination, but interpretations and individual circumstances have formed general religious beliefs regarding the topic. Christianity does not have set guidelines on how a body is handled pertaining to an autopsy. Most followers of Christianity believe that once someone has passed away, their spirit has left the body. Recorded autopsies date back to as early as …

5 Essential Tips for Pathologists Getting Started on Twitter

August 25, 2020August 8, 2016

1. Back to Basics Set up your profile – completely and properly. Choose a username that represents your professional interests. Experts in the medical field are more likely to follow someone with the handle of @PathologyPro over @ilovepizza54. Next, be sure to upload a profile picture. Potential followers are more apt to engage with a user when they see a photo of an actual person. Keep it professional, but also don’t be afraid to show your personality. Lastly, add a …