Webinar: Navigating the First Solo Embalming: Bridging the Information Gap for Apprentices
Virtual Event
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
iCalendar
Central Standard Time
NFDA Webinar (1 CE Hour)
Free for Members
All times are U.S. Central Time
Embarking on your first solo embalming can be daunting. This presentation guides apprentices through key challenges like fluid selection, dilution, and injection site choices. Leveraging the experience of seasoned embalmers, it bridges the gap between apprentices and preceptors, offering actionable insights and strategies for effective knowledge transfer. By the end, apprentices will gain confidence and a deeper understanding of their first solo embalming, while fostering a supportive learning environment and strengthening the mentor-apprentice relationship.
Key Takeaways
- Discover how to navigate common obstacles, including fluid selection, developing the primary dilution, and identifying the optimal injection site.
- Learn how to address the information divide between apprentices and preceptors and explore a roadmap for bridging this gap effectively.
- Gain strategies for tackling challenges head-on and insights into the decision-making processes used by experienced embalmers.
Presenter
Damon de la Cruz, PhD is a licensed Embalmer and Funeral Director. He is the Director of Education for the Frigid Fluid Company, an educator for several Funeral Service education programs, and has served the American Board of Funeral Service Education on multiple committees. He speaks nationally and internationally on a regular basis. His embalming career has spanned multiple states, countries, and continents. Damon has a bachelor’s degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology and was awarded a Doctorate in Pathobiology from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California for his work on stem cell homeostasis. Most recently, Damon has co-authored the textbook Turning Art into Science: Applying Chemistry to Funeral Service. Additionally, he recognizes the potential for technology in funeral service and created the popular free embalming app Embalm Calc.
Approved for 1 CE hour by APFSP and by most state and province licensing boards.