CFTC CFTC Forensic Documentation & Evidence Collection 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: The optimal timeframe for collecting biological evidence after sexual assault in most U.S. forensic protocols is:
- Within 12 hours
- Within 120 hours (5 days) (Correct answer)
- Within 24 hours
- Within 7 days
Correct answer: Within 120 hours (5 days)
Most current U.S. SANE protocols extend the evidence collection window to 120 hours, though earlier collection yields better evidence.
Question 2: Which evidence collection tool is used to swab for DNA from bite marks on a survivor's skin?
- Toluidine blue dye applicator
- Double-swab technique using sterile swabs (Correct answer)
- Vaginal speculum
- Forensic light source only
Correct answer: Double-swab technique using sterile swabs
The double-swab technique (one moist, one dry swab) is the standard method for collecting DNA from bite mark impressions.
Question 3: When documenting injuries in a forensic medical record, the clinician should describe wounds using:
- Subjective impressions of injury severity
- Objective measurements, location by body diagram, and descriptive terminology (Correct answer)
- A brief narrative summary without measurements
- Photographs only, with no written description
Correct answer: Objective measurements, location by body diagram, and descriptive terminology
Objective, measurable, anatomically precise descriptions ensure documentation is defensible and reproducible in legal proceedings.
Question 4: A forensic clinician observes patterned bruising on a pediatric patient. The MOST appropriate immediate action is to:
- Photograph and document the injury, then consult with child abuse specialists
- Wait to see if bruising resolves before reporting (Correct answer)
- Ask the caregiver to explain the injury before documenting
- Treat the injury and defer forensic concerns to law enforcement
Correct answer: Wait to see if bruising resolves before reporting
Patterned bruising is a child abuse indicator requiring immediate documentation and multidisciplinary consultation before caregiver questioning.
Question 5: Forensic light sources (alternate light sources) in sexual assault examinations are PRIMARILY used to:
- Assess skin coloration changes related to internal injury
- Detect trace evidence and bodily fluids not visible under normal light (Correct answer)
- Diagnose STIs through skin fluorescence
- Measure wound depth and tissue damage
Correct answer: Detect trace evidence and bodily fluids not visible under normal light
Alternate light sources cause certain bodily fluids, fibers, and trace materials to fluoresce, aiding evidence identification.
Question 6: Which of the following is the CORRECT order of priority when a survivor presents for forensic examination immediately after assault?
- Evidence collection → medical treatment → psychological support
- Medical stabilization → informed consent → evidence collection → psychological support (Correct answer)
- Psychological support → evidence collection → medical treatment
- Law enforcement notification → evidence collection → medical treatment
Correct answer: Medical stabilization → informed consent → evidence collection → psychological support
Medical stabilization ensures the survivor's safety first; then consent is obtained before proceeding with forensic evidence collection.
CFTC CFTC Forensic Documentation & Evidence Collection 2
The optimal timeframe for collecting biological evidence after sexual assault in most U.S. forensic protocols is: