CFN Evidence Collection Process 3

Question 1

A forensic nurse discovers that a seal on an evidence envelope has been broken when retrieving it from storage. What is the appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Document the broken seal, notify the chain of custody officer, and do not use the evidence

Answer

Re-seal the envelope and continue processing

Answer

Test the evidence anyway and note the discrepancy in the report

Answer

Return the evidence to the submitting officer for repackaging

Question 2

When should the forensic nurse obtain oral swabs from a sexual assault victim who reports oral contact by the assailant?

Accepted Answer

Before the victim eats, drinks, or brushes teeth

Answer

After the victim has eaten or drunk to stimulate saliva production

Answer

Only if the assault occurred within 6 hours

Answer

After a routine dental examination

Question 3

What is the recommended time frame for collecting fingernail scrapings from a sexual assault victim who scratched the assailant?

Accepted Answer

Within 72 hours of the assault

Answer

Within 12 hours of the assault

Answer

Within 24 hours of the assault

Answer

Within 7 days of the assault

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why forensic nurses should photograph injuries before and after cleaning wounds?

Accepted Answer

Pre-cleaning photos capture blood patterns and trace evidence that may be lost during wound care

Answer

To compare healing rates for medical documentation

Answer

Post-cleaning photos are legally more admissible than pre-cleaning photos

Answer

To document the nurse's compliance with wound care protocols

Question 5

A patient reports a sexual assault by multiple assailants. How should the forensic nurse approach evidence collection from multiple anatomic sites?

Accepted Answer

Collect samples from each site using separate, clearly labeled swabs to avoid cross-contamination

Answer

Collect all samples simultaneously to save time

Answer

Combine samples from similar anatomic regions into one swab set

Answer

Focus only on the primary assault site to minimize patient discomfort

Question 6

A forensic nurse is collecting anal/rectal swabs from a male patient reporting sodomy. What position best facilitates evidence collection with minimal discomfort?

Accepted Answer

Left lateral decubitus (left side-lying) with knees drawn up

Answer

Supine with legs extended

Answer

Standing and leaning forward

Answer

Prone position

Question 7

Which statement about the use of alternate light source (ALS) in evidence collection is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

ALS is used before collection to identify potential biological fluid locations

Answer

ALS can only detect blood and semen

Answer

ALS should be used after swabbing to confirm collection sites

Answer

ALS replaces the need for swabbing identified areas