27 states use Lethal Injection by end of 1995. A number of doctors have pointed out that drugs may not work effectively on diabetics or former drug users, whose veins may be hard to reach. In some cases minor surgery may be required to cut in to a deeper vein, according to medical testimony. The body changes colour, the flesh swells and may even catch fire. The prisoner may defecate, urinate or vomit blood.
Witnesses always report that there is a smell of burning flesh.
Upon a signal, the executioner opens a valve, flowing hydrochloric acid into the pan. Unconciousness occurs within a few seconds if the prisoner takes a deep breath, and longer if he or she holds their breath. After pronouncement of death, the chamber is evacuated through carbon and neutralizing filters. Gas-masked crews decontaminate the body with a bleach solution and outgassed prior to release. An unwary undertaker could be killed if this is not done.