ABMDI: Reports and Communications with 100% correct answers

There are different types of death investigation documentation. Does it matter which type you use? No. All that matter is an accurate and thorough investigation is completed and documented Interview A formal face-to-face conversation between a reporter and a person from whom information is sought Why is conducting interviews important for the death investigation? The statements the individuals make often help in determining the actual circumstances surrounding the subject's death Why is it crucial to interview the loved ones of a decedent that committed suicide ASAP? Over time, they might begin to feel guilty that they did not stop the decedent from harming themselves and may unintentionally construct a scenario that is not true Remember to interview the witnesses.... not __________________. Interrogate When choosing people to interview about a death scene... what two types of people MUST be interviewed? 1. NOK and people most knowledgeable about the decedent 2. Person who discovered the body What is an appropriate use of assertive behavior during an interview? Taking charge and giving direction in a supportive way. Most families appreciate the guidance Why is it important to maintain eye contact and speak slowly with proper tone during interrviews? Eye contact: Shows you are being honest and straightforward Voice: Inspires confidence If the family asks a question during the interview that could be hard for them to hear, what should the MEI do? Deliver the news in a professional manner. The family has the right to know When must the MEI inform the pathologist of potentially infectious situations or religious concerns of the family? Before the pathologist begins the autopsy Before the autopsy, the MEI must present the ME with all pertinent investigative information. What are 5 types of information included in this: 1. Detailed description/photos of death scene 2. Any unusual circumstances the decedent experienced 3. Pertinent medical and drug history 4. Unusual items found with the body 5. Estimated death interval What is the Orthodox Jewish community's beliefs in regards to autopsies? Object to autopsy If an autopsy is necessary, it must be performed before sundown of the day the person died What are the beliefs of the Muslim, Jehovah's witness, Catholic, and Protestant communities in regards to autopsies? They are generally not opposed to autopsies What are the beliefs of the Laotian, Mexican Catholic, and Native American communities in regards to autopsies? Generally object to autopsies What are 4 examples of requests outside agencies may request of the ME? 1. Salvage certain medical equipment 2. Dispose of/recover evidence 3. Dispose of personal effects 4. Address concerns of the family/funeral director What two things determine the release of information to the media? 1. Each state's laws regarding information release 2. Agreements between local investigative agencies What can the unwarranted withholding of information from the media cause? Unnecessary challenges for and allegations about your office Which two parties from the ME's office may release information to the media or appear for an interview? 1. Chief ME 2. The designee assigned by the ME If an MEI receives numerous requests for information on a particular case, what should the MEI do? Ask the ME for a written press release to facilitate accurate and timely release of information What is the purpose of contacting the decedent's physician? Obtain detailed medical information regarding the decedent, to assist in determining the COD/MOD When documenting a medication list for the decedent, what 7 pieces of information does the MEI need to obtain? 1. Name of medication 2. Dosage 3. Number of refills 4. Prescribing physician 5. Date of prescription 6. Number of pills remaining 7. Name and number of pharmacy