ABMDI Scene Assessment and Death Investigation Procedures 2

Question 1

Which type of death scene search pattern is most appropriate for a large outdoor scene?

Accepted Answer

Grid or zone search pattern

Answer

A grid or zone search pattern ensures systematic, thorough coverage of large outdoor death scenes with minimal risk of missing evidence.

Question 2

A decomposed body is found in a residence. What environmental condition most significantly accelerates decomposition?

Accepted Answer

High humidity and warm temperatures

Answer

High humidity combined with warm temperatures creates optimal conditions for microbial and insect activity that accelerates decomposition.

Question 3

When photographing a death scene, what is the correct sequence for photography?

Accepted Answer

Overview, mid-range, then close-up

Answer

The standard photography sequence begins with overview shots to establish context, followed by mid-range and then close-up detail photographs.

Question 4

Which of the following is a valid reason for a medical examiner to assume jurisdiction over a death that occurred in a hospital?

Accepted Answer

The patient died as a result of an injury sustained within 24 hours of admission

Answer

Deaths resulting from trauma or injury, especially when the injury occurred within a defined period before death, fall under medical examiner jurisdiction.

Question 5

What does 'chain of custody' mean in the context of death investigation?

Accepted Answer

Documented tracking of evidence from collection through disposition

Answer

Chain of custody is the documented, unbroken record of who collected, handled, transferred, and stored evidence from scene to court.

ABMDI - American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators Practice Test

ABMDI - American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators Practice Test

ABMDI Scene Assessment and Death Investigation Procedures 2