ABMDI Toxicology and Drug-Related Deaths 3

Question 1

A body is discovered with a distinctive cherry-red color to the skin and lividity. Which toxic exposure does this suggest?

Accepted Answer

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Answer

Methamphetamine intoxication

Answer

Cyanide poisoning

Answer

Alcohol intoxication

Question 2

What is the primary concern when an MDI suspects a clandestine drug laboratory at a scene?

Accepted Answer

Personal safety from toxic chemical exposure and explosion hazards before entering

Answer

Preserving drug evidence for prosecution

Answer

Immediately photographing all drug manufacturing equipment

Answer

Contacting the drug supplier

Question 3

In toxicology reporting, what does 'presumptive positive' mean?

Accepted Answer

A preliminary screening result indicating possible presence of a substance, requiring confirmatory testing

Answer

A confirmed laboratory identification of a specific substance

Answer

A negative result that is probably inaccurate

Answer

A toxicology report completed without full analysis

Question 4

What does 'blood alcohol concentration' (BAC) measure and what is the legal limit for driving in most US states?

Accepted Answer

The grams of alcohol per 100 mL of blood; 0.08%

Answer

The volume of blood tested; 0.05%

Answer

The number of drinks consumed; 0.10%

Answer

The percentage of blood replaced by alcohol; 0.02%

Question 5

Which of the following drug categories is associated with miosis (pinpoint pupils) as a clinical sign, which may still be observable at death scene examination?

Accepted Answer

Opioids such as heroin or morphine

Answer

Stimulants such as cocaine

Answer

Hallucinogens such as LSD

Answer

Dissociative agents such as ketamine

Question 6

A death investigator finds a decedent with fentanyl patches on the body. What is the most important consideration for the investigation?

Accepted Answer

The patches should be counted, documented, and submitted for analysis as they may contribute to toxic levels even after death

Answer

Fentanyl patches are never associated with accidental death

Answer

Patches should be immediately removed to prevent exposure to scene personnel

Answer

Fentanyl patches only affect children