ABMDI Investigative Documentation and Reports 2

Question 1

The MDI's investigative report should be written in which style?

Accepted Answer

Objective, factual, third-person documentation of observations, actions, and information gathered

Answer

MDI reports should be objective, factual, and written in a professional format that documents observations and information without personal interpretation or emotional language.

Question 2

When should an MDI complete the initial investigative report?

Accepted Answer

As soon as possible after the investigation while details are fresh, per office policy (often within 24-72 hours)

Answer

Initial reports should be completed as soon as possible after the investigation while observations are fresh, typically within the timeframe set by office policy.

Question 3

A photograph taken at a death scene is most useful as evidence when it:

Accepted Answer

Includes a scale marker, proper labeling (case number, date, direction), and is taken before any scene disturbance

Answer

Forensic photographs require scale markers for size reference, proper documentation labels, and must be taken before any disturbance to preserve context and admissibility.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a scene sketch or diagram in death investigation documentation?

Accepted Answer

To provide a scaled diagram showing spatial relationships between the body, evidence items, and scene features

Answer

Scene sketches document spatial relationships and measurements that photographs cannot fully convey, providing a scaled representation of the scene.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the opinion section of a medicolegal death investigation report?

Accepted Answer

The MDI may summarize findings and their investigative significance, noting that cause and manner are the medical examiner's determination

Answer

MDIs may summarize findings in an opinion section but must be clear that the final cause and manner of death determination belongs to the medical examiner, not the MDI.

ABMDI - American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators Practice Test

ABMDI - American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators Practice Test

ABMDI Investigative Documentation and Reports 2