Chapter 3: Interacting with families (solved)

Does the family need to know where the body is, why the ME/Coroner is involved, what procedures will be performed on the body, and when the body can be released? correct answers Yes, it is important to keep the family informed accurately and concisely throughout the entire process. Is it important to provide the family with a realistic timetable to receive information regarding autopsy results and availability of the death certificate? correct answers Yes, it is important to inform them that there may be lags in compiling information for the death certificate (toxicological analysis, medical records, police reports). Can the family obtain a autopsy report in the case of homicide or ongoing investigation etc? correct answers No, the family is prohibited for obtaining a copy and should be informed why. Can the death investigator suggest or refer the family to a specific funeral home? correct answers No, this would constitute a breach of ethical conduct and may be illegal. True or False: If the family objects to the autopsy, the pathologist can not complete a autopsy without their permission. correct answers False, if the ME/Coroner believes an autopsy should be done, they should do it regardless of the family's objection and cannot use the objection to free themselves from legal obligation. True or False: The family does not have any legal right to view the remains. correct answers False, the family has the right however, it is important to maintain barriers--photographs, remote camera, glass partition-- to prevent contamination of the evidence of the remains by the family. True or False: It is still important for a badly charred, decomposed, skeletonized, or face with great trauma to be visually identified. correct answers False, there is little need to obtain visual identification. True or False: If the family insists on viewing the body no matter the condition, the family should be required to sign a waiver. correct answers True