A Case Clue Challenge
The Case Clue Challenge
You’re the funeral director reviewing a case file before embalming. You don’t get a full diagnosis, just clues from the chart and what you see during removal/first assessment. Your job is to connect those clues to the system involved and explain what it means for case prep and presentation.
Step 1: Pick ONE Case File (A, B, or C)
Case A — The Bronze & Puffy Case (Endocrine)
Clues:
· Unusual bronze discoloration most noticeable around scars/pressure points
· General fatigue history + weight changes
· Visible puffiness/edema
Case B — The Skin Tells the Story (Integument)
Clues:
· Multiple lesions + areas of dryness/scales
· A history note mentions “possible infection”
· Family requests open casket; you notice fragile/irritated skin areas
Case C — The Swollen Nodes & Wasting (Lymphatic)
Clues:
· Noticeable enlarged lymph nodes and/or enlarged spleen
· History of weight loss, itching, night sweats, or fever
· Significant fluid disruption (edema/dehydration) noted in chart
Step 2: Your Initial Post (3 parts)
Use headings or numbers.
1) Name the system + most likely condition/process
Pick one condition/process from the chapters that best fits your case (examples: Addison’s disease / myxedema / diabetes complications; abscess).
2) Explain the “why” using 2–3 clues
Connect the clues to the condition using correct course terms.
(Example idea: endocrine disorders often involve edema/discoloration/circulatory disturbances)
3) Prep Room Plan: 2–3 decisions you’d make
Give 2–3 practical actions tied to your case (distribution/drainage strategy, chemical selection, surface embalming, odor control).
Be specific about what you’d prioritize first and why.