When directing the trocar to aspirate the right side of the heart, which landmarks are used?

• A. Left anterior-superior iliac spine and right shoulder
• B. Right anterior-superior iliac spine and left knee
• C. Left anterior-superior iliac spine and right earlobe
• D. Right anterior-superior iliac spine and left ear

Answer: (C)

In the context of directing the trocar to aspirate the right side of the heart, the correct landmarks used are the left anterior-superior iliac spine and the right earlobe.

The left anterior-superior iliac spine serves as a reliable anatomical landmark to help ensure that the trocar is inserted at an appropriate angle and depth. From this point, the trocar is directed towards the right earlobe, which provides a clear path for accessing the right atrium of the heart. This alignment helps embalmers avoid vital organs and structures while effectively aspirating the pericardial fluid and blood from the heart.

Using these specific landmarks is critical because they allow for accurate trocar placement, reducing the risk of injury to surrounding tissues and ensuring effective arterial injection and drainage during the embalming process. The selected landmarks are recognized in embalming practice as facilitating the proper positioning necessary to optimize the procedure safely and effectively.