ABMDI Registry Exam With Complete
Solutions.
Anacephalic – Answer An infant born without a brain.
Coronal plane – Answer The plane that divides the body into front and back (e.g,
anterior [ventral] and posterior [dorsal]) halves
Mid-sagittal plane – Answer The plane that divides the body into right and left halves
Transverse – Answer The plane that divides the body into top and bottom (e.g.
superior [cephalad] and inferior [caudal]) halves
Lateral – Answer Surface or portion of the body that points toward the side or away
from the midline of the body
Medial – Answer Describes any surface or portion of the body that points of faces
toward the midline of the body (e.g., midsaggital plane)
Proximal – Answer Refers to a relative position that is farther away from the central
portion of the body or origin of the structure (e.g., the position of the hand is distal to
the shoulder)
Superficial – Answer Refers to a relative position close to the surface of an organ or
close to the skin
Deep – Answer Refers to a relative position within the body or farther away from the
surface of the body (e.g., farther from the surface)
Auricular – Answer The area of the ear
Temporal – Answer The side (lateral) surface of the head.
Occipital – Answer The back (posterior) surface of the head
Parietal – Answer The area considers the top of the head. This area abuts the frontal,
temporal, and occipital regions
Orbital – Answer Area of the eye
Sternal notch or angle – Answer The junction of the sternum and the clavicle relating
to the T4 to T5 level of vertebral bodies
Submental – Answer The area under the chin or jaw line
Costal margin – Answer The lowest portion of the anterior ribs, corresponding to the
level of the anterior attachment of the diaphragm and L3-L4 vertebral bodies
Umbilicus – Answer The naval
ABMDI Registry Exam With Complete
Solutions.
Pectoral girdle – Answer The muscles, bones, and other structures responsible for
the attachment of the arm to the torso
Axilla – Answer The armpit region
Epigastrium – Answer The upper portion of the abdomen bordered by the costal
margin
Cervical – Answer Refers to the upper (superior) portion of the spine
Thoracic – Answer Refers to the middle portion of the spine, which defines the
thoracic cavity. Ribs attach to each of the thoracic vertebrae
Lumbar – Answer Refers to the lower portion of the spine (small of the back)
Sacrum – Answer Refers to the normally fused portion of the lower spine, which
constitutes the back (posterior) region of the pelvic bones
Coccyx – Answer Tail bone
Volar – Answer The front (anterior, ventral) surface of the forearms and hands. The
term “palmar” is used in this context with respect to the hands.
Antecubital – Answer The front (anterior, ventral) surface of the elbow where the arm
and forearm meet. AKA antecubital fossa and is a common site for IV catheters and
need punctures
Tibia – Answer The bone that defines the inner (medial) aspect of the lower (inferior)
portion of the leg. The front (anterior) surface of this bone constitutes a portion of the
shin (aka the pretibial region)
Fibula – Answer The bone that defines the outer (lateral) aspect of the lower (inferior)
portion of the leg
Plantar – Answer The bottom surface of the foot
Dorsum – Answer The top surface of the foot
Thorax and thoracic cavity – Answer Contains the lungs and heart; pleural spaces
enclose the lungs under the skeletal system
Pericardium – Answer The cavity containing the heart; it consists of a fibrous
connective tissue.
Pericardial tamponade – Answer When blood escapes from the heart or aorta and
fills the pericardium
ABMDI Study Questions And Answers.
A 30-year-old male dies of AIDS; it is permissible for the death investigator to:
a. Release property taken at the scene to the family
b. Disclose information about the death to interested parties
c. Inform the media as to the cause of death
d. Amend the death certificate for the emotional well being of the family
e. Release the cause and manner of death to friends and associates – Answer a.
Release property taken at the scene to the family
When attempting to assist a coworker dealing with job-related stress, it is most
appropriate to show:
a. Sympathy
b. Empathy
c. Indifference
d. Sarcasm
e. Tenacity – Answer b. Empathy
After you have completed an investigation at a private residence, the family calls
your office to report the theft of personal property from their residence. How should
you handle the situation?:
a. Adamantly deny the theft of personal property
b. Place blame on the first responders
c. Refer the caller to your immediate supervisor
d. Fax a copy of the property receipt to the family
e. Refer the caller to the family’s funeral director – Answer c. Refer the caller to your
immediate supervisor
All death scenes should be treated as __ until proven otherwise:
a. Accidents
b. Conspiracies
c. Natural
d. Suicides
e. Homicides – Answer e. Homicides
All of the following are considered common errors investigators make when
collecting evidence EXCEPT which one?:
a. Removal of evidence before photographing
b. Not collecting enough evidence
c. Not collecting a standard of comparison
d. Collecting too much evidence
e. Not recognizing evidentiary value – Answer d. Collecting too much evidence
The application of science to law describes:
a. Criminological science
b. Criminal science
c. Criminal defense law
d. Medicolegal law
e. Forensic science – Answer e. Forensic science
A body with a bullet wound through the chest is found almost 50 feet from the
weapon. Should the investigator rule out suicide as a manner of death?:
ABMDI Study Questions And Answers.
a. Yes; a serious chest wound would prevent the person from moving that distance
b. Yes; a chest wound is too painful to allow continuous movement for that distance
c. No; persons who commit suicide have the weapon in hand or nearby
d. No; a person who is mortally wounded can travel a considerable distance before
collapsing
e. Yes; bullets have kinetic energy which tends to knock down the victim – Answer d.
No; a person who is mortally wounded can travel a considerable distance before
collapsing
A business woman from out of town is found dead in her motel room, the victim of
apparent homicidal violence. Personal items in the room reveal she is married and
lives in an adjoining state. In order to notify her NOK, the investigator should:
a. Telephone the husband and advise him of the death immediately, then send a
police officer(s) to the husband’s residence to inform him of the death. Request that
the officer(s) remain at the residence and direct the husband to call the investigator’s
office at that time
b. Contact the law enforcement agency in the husband’s jurisdiction. Ask them to
send a police officer(s) to the husband’s residence and inform him of the death.
Request that the officer(s) remain at the residence and direct the husband to call the
investigator’s office at that time
c. Request the motel owner to notify the NOK from the information obtained in the
motel registry, then contact the law enforcement agency in the husband’s jurisdiction.
Ask them to send a police officer(s) to the husband’s residence and inform him of the
death. Request that the officer(s) remain at the residence and direct the husband to
call the investigator’s office at that time
d. Send a priority mail package (next day air) containing a notification letter and
personal effects to the husband, then request that an officer direct the husband to
call the investigator’s office at the time he receives the package
e. Contact the Red Cross to notify the husband – Answer b. Contact the law
enforcement agency in the husband’s jurisdiction. Ask them to send a police
officer(s) to the husband’s residence and inform him of the death. Request that the
officer(s) remain at the residence and direct the husband to call the investigator’s
office at that time
Death due to contact with an electrical device is primarily related to:
a. The number of volts received by the victim
b. The number of amps received by the victim
c. The number of watts received by the victim
d. The number of joules received by the victim
e. Prolonged contact over one minute – Answer b. The number of amps received by
the victim
A death investigator may experience symptoms of emotional trauma. What is the
best means available to assist these individuals?:
a. The National Association of Clergy
b. Contact the employee union representative
c. The Association of Chaplains and Counselors
d. Appropriate local employee assistance programs (human resource departments,
crisis response team, etc.)
ABMDI Board Certification With
Correct Solutions.
Barbituates – Answer Four main categories:
- Ultra-short-acting – used to induce surgical anesthesia
- Short-acting
- Intermediate-acting – used as sedative-hypnotics
- Long-acting
Butalbital – Answer Barbituate. Used in treatment of migraines.
Phenobarbital – Answer Barbituate. Used as anticonvulsant.
Pentobarbital – Answer Barbituate. Used to relieve intracranial pressure following
trauma.
Atropine – Answer Belladonna Alkaloid. Derived from certain plants including jimson
weed and deadly nightshade. Used as a preanesthetic therapy to control airway
secretions and as a antispasmodic to control gastrointestinal spasms. Used as an
antidote in the treatment of poisoning by cholinesterase inhibitors. Also used in
resuscitative attempts.
Toxic effects: mydriasis, hot dry reddened skin, delirium, and hallucinations.
Scopalamine – Answer Belladonna Alkaloid. Derived from jimson weed and henbane.
Used as a preanesthetic, treatment of Parkinsonism, gastrointestinal disorders, and
prevention of motion sickness.
Toxic effects: Blurred vision, dryness of throat, dilated pupils, somnolence,
mydriasis, skin flushing, hallucinations, and confusion.
Benzodiazepines – Answer Belladonna Alkaloid. Used as anxiolytics,
antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and as preoperative sedatives.
Common benzos: alprazolam, lorazepam, clonazepam, and diazepam.
Extensive hepatic metabolism.
Adult flies caught at the scene need to be properly stored to send to the lab. This
involves – Answer placing the flies in a glass vial containing 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Forensic scientists may use forensic entomology for all the following EXCEPT
A. estimate the duration of the post-mortem range (PMI).
B. detect drugs of abuse in maggot infested bodies.
C. detect the location of the body at the time of death.
D. collect DNA material left on the corpse in cases of sexual assault.
E. detect volatile hydrocarbons in fire deaths. – Answer detect volatile hydrocarbons
in fire deaths.
Which of the following methods is the LEAST sensitive chromatographic technique
A. High-pressure liquid chromatograph (HPLC)
B. Liquid chromatography / Mass Spectrometry
C. Thin-layer chromatography
D. Gas chromatography / Mass Spectrometry
E. Gas chromatography – Answer Thin-layer chromatography
ABMDI Board Certification With
Correct Solutions.
Which ONE of the following drugs is responsible for the most intentional overdose
fatalities?
A. Barbiturates
B. Propoxyphene
C. Benzodiazepines
D. Tricyclic Antidepressants
E. Antihistamines – Answer Tricyclic Antidepressants
In scenes illuminated by bright sunlight, there will usually be dark shadow areas.
Detail in the deep shadow areas will be lost when the exposure is based on the
overall brightness of the scene. The brightness level in the shadow areas can be
raised to the overall brightness of the scene by using
A. an alternate light source
B. ultraviolet fluorescence.
C. flash-fill photography.
D. an increased F-stop.
E. a restricted aperture. – Answer Flash-fill photography
Using an alternate light source, you can identify stains that may contain samples of
A. serum.
B. semen.
C. saliva.
D. urine.
E. All of the above – Answer All of the above
When submitting tool mark evidence for examination, you should always
A. place the tool against the tool marked evidence.
B. make test cuts or impressions rather than submit the tool.
C. submit a cast of the tool mark.
D. refrain from collecting samples of any material deposited on the tools.
E. All of the above – Answer submit a cast of the tool mark
With regards to investigating a scene where firearms were used, which ONE of the
following statements is FALSE?
A. Bullet holes through doors can produce atypical entrance wounds.
B. The presence of spent cartridges at the scene suggests a semi-automatic assault
rifle.
C. Fragments from intermediate targets can cause pseudo-stippling.
D. A spent cartridge at the scene is most suggestive of a revolver-type handgun.
E. Spent cartridges recovered at the scene can be analyzed by firearm experts. –
Answer A spent cartridge at the scene is most suggestive of a revolver-type
handgun.
Which of the following is NOT a bullet fired by a handgun?
A. Semi-jacketed hollow point
B. Wad cutter
C. Buckshot
ABMDI-D Exam Verified 100% Correct!!
ANECEPHALIC – Answer An infant born without a brain
BEREAVEMENT – Answer Sorrow following the death of a loved one
BRAIN DEATH – Answer Final cessation of activity in the central nervous system, as
indicated by a flat EEG or absence of cerebral blood flow for a predetermined period
of time
CARDIAC DEATH – Answer Final cessation of activity in the cardiovascular system
involving the heart and blood vessels
CESSATION – Answer The final stoppage of action
CORONER – Answer Typically an elected official who decides whether a death
occurred under circumstances that require an autopsy, either by law or to determine
manner or cause.
JURISDICTION – Answer The power of authority a court or office has over
individuals or trauma
LNOK – Answer The person from whom the medicolegal death investigator must
secure consent before initiating any procurement activity
MEDICAL EXAMINER – Answer Usually a medical doctor, although not necessary a
highly trained pathologist. Like a coroner, a ME decides whether a death occurred
under circumstances that may require an autopsy and who will perform it if the ME is
not qualified.
OPO (organ procurement organization) – Answer The agency responsible for
identifying potential donors, obtaining consent, and procuring organs
POSTMORTEM CHANGES – Answer Alterations of the body following death,
including decomposition and environmental resuscitative injuries
STATUTES – Answer Laws enacted by the legislative branch of government
VERIFY – Answer Establish or confirm the accuracy of information or evidence
through testimony
VITAL STATISTICS – Answer A gov’t agency responsible for maintaining a system of
registration and release of records for the public, including birth, marriage, divorce,
an death
Official pronouncement of death can :
A. be accomplished only by a physician
B. be accomplished by any medical professional
C. be accomplished by any responsible party
D. be accomplished by on-duty police officiers
E. be determined by state statue and local customs – Answer E.
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Authorization to conduct a medicolegal autopsy must be provided by:
A. the decedent’s NOK
B. the coroner or ME when jurisdiction is esetablished
C. a will or other document signed before death
D. the treating physician
E. all of the above – Answer B
A previously healthy four-month-old infant is found unresponsive in his crib at home.
He is rushed to a hospital, where he is maintained on a respirator for 26 hours before
being declared dead. No external trauma or disease is noted by the treating
physician:
A. the coroner is without jurisdiction because of hospitalization
B. The coroner has jurisdiction because of the unexplained death of an infant
C. The coroner has jurisdiction because of length of hospitalization
D. The absence of trauma precludes the coroner’s having jurisdiction
E. Significant trauma will always be apparent on the surface of the body – Answer B
Your office is investigating a suspected SIDS death. You should notify your
statewide SIDS program:
A. ASAP following the autopsy
B. within 24 hours of the death
C. within 48 hours of the death
D. within 72 hours of the death
E. within one week of the death – Answer A
In general, which of the following are NOT normally for organ/tissue procurement
purposes?
A. liver and kidneys
B. long bones and pelvis
C. reproductive organs
D. heart valves
E. pancreas and skin – Answer C
Authorization for organ/tissue procurement is considered valid if :
A. a donor designation appears on the decedent’s drivers license
B. a donor card with the decedent’s name is found in his/her wallet or purse
C. an emergency room physician gives permission
D. the decedent’s LNOK or rep has given consent
E. no LNOK can be located – Answer D
The death investigator and a police officer arrive at the scene within minutes of each
other:
A. The police officer is in charge and directs the work
B. The death investigator is in charge and directs the work
C. The best approach is a “team” approach to performing the work
D. Each has specific responsibilities to perform, and they should not interact
E. Work together only if necessary; you represent different agencies – Answer C
In constructing a narrative report, the main idea is to relate:
A. your involvement in the case
ABMDI-D Exam Verified 100% Correct!!
B. the main reason for the death
C. an overall and concise view of what happened
D. how the deceased was identifed
E. background info regarding the condition of the body – Answer C
Choose one of the MOST important communication skills for gathering info at the
scene:
A. talk to all neighbors
B. listen and actively study witnesses
C. write down your thoughts
D. avoid eye contact with suspects
E. none of the above – Answer B
The pathologist must be alerted to religious requests from the family:
A. before the victim’s body is taken from the hospital
B. after the autopsy, before the body is taken to the FH
C. only if religion requires it
D. before the autopsy is performed
E. before the victim’s body is taken from the scene – Answer D
When communicating with the pathologist, a good investigator distinguishes between
a request for info and a request for an opinion. Which type is the following question:
“What time was the death pronounced?”
A. request for an opinion
B. request for info
C. request for info and opinion
D. request for assistance
E. none of the above – Answer B
ANTEMORTEM BLOOD SAMPLE – Answer An initial blood sample that usually is
obtained when the subject arrives at the hospital ER, before additional diagnostic or
therapeutic treatment is initiated
AUTHORIZATION – Answer Official permission granted by a superior
COMMON-LAW MARRIAGE – Answer A marriage that is recognized because the
couple have been cohabiting for a determined length of time, yet a legal marriage
ceremony has not been performed
CONFIDENTIAL – Answer Revealed in confidence (trust, assurance), to be kept
secret
CREMATION – Answer The reduction of a dead human body to inorganic bone
fragments by intense heat in a specially designed chamber
DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION – Answer Personal identifying and specific info
regarding an individual’s age, social security #, gender, address, and so on
DISINTERMENT – Answer The opening of a grave and removal of the body for the
purpose of reexamination or removal to another site
ABMDI Questions
Practice(difficult/missed questions
during practice exam) Completed 2023
Medical examiner/coroner authority at a death scene comes from? – Answer the
medical examiner/coroner office policy derived from state statutory authority.
State systems, or states with a “State Medical Examiner” typically investigate? –
Answer all deaths within their state that fall under statute.
The public information officer (PIO) for your jurisdiction requests information
regarding an investigation for exclusive release. The investigator should? – Answer
advise the PIO of office policy and decline to provide information that would not
otherwise be provided to other news agencies.
he pathologist has identified the cause of death of a 62-year-old male as acute
myocardial infarction. The victim’s spouse calls you two days after your scene
investigation to request the results of the autopsy. You should – Answer interpret the
pathologist’s findings (heart attack) to her.
Death due to contact with an electrical device is primarily related to – Answer the
number of amps received by the victim.
What level of carbon monoxide saturation of hemoglobin is most commonly seen to
cause the death of a child? – Answer 20 to 30%.
Official pronouncement of death is by? – Answer Is determined by state statute and
local customs
authorization to conduct. a medicolegal autopsy must be provided by? – Answer the
coroner/medical examiner when jurisdiction is established
You should notify your SIDS program when? – Answer as soon as possible following
an autopsy confirming the SIDS death
which of the following is not normally considered for organ/tissue procurement?
A. Liver and kidneys
B. long bones and pelvis
C. reproductive organs
D. heart valves
E. pancreas and skin – Answer C
authorization for organ/tissue procurement is considered valid if? – Answer the
decedent’s LNOK or representative have given consent
Investigative authority is derived from? – Answer state and local laws governing the
role of ME/Coroner
Reportable deaths – Answer Unexplained, unusual, or suspicious circumstances
Homicides
ABMDI EXAM 2023 VERIFIED 100%
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Which of the following MUST notify the coroner/ME promptly upon discovery of a
suspicious death?
a. law enforcement official
b. funeral director
c. EMT or paramedic
d. ER room physician
e. all of the above – Answer e. all of the above
A 35 year old white female, who was employed as a waitress, unexpectedly dies at
work. An autopsy confirms the cause of death as bacterial meningitis. Which of the
following agencies must be notified promptly?
a. emergency medical association
b. department of public health
c. department of OSHA
d. department of children and family services
e. food and drug administration – Answer b. department of public health
You have received a call in regard to a natural death at a residence. Your
investigation should include:
a. establishing a cause and manner of death at the scene
b. accepting family members’ opinions as to the COD
c. contacting the physician of the deceased
d. basing your conclusions on the opinion of paramedics at the scene
e. forming an opinion as to the COD based on types of meds prescribed – Answer c.
contacting the physician of the deceased
You are on scene of a homicide and the police tell you that the media want you to
release the subject’s name and information about the case. You should:
a. take them with you to the scene
b. follow office policy and procedures that your office has established for dealing with
media
c. tell the media that you will not give them any information but that you will let them
take pictures of the body
d. let the police make the press release on behalf of your office
e. give the media the basic information – Answer b. follow office policy and
procedures that your office has established for dealing with media
In general, which of the following is not normally considered for organ/tissue
procurement purposes?
a. heart valves
b. long bones and pelvis
c. kidneys
d. tendon and veins
e. reproductive organs – Answer e. reproductive organs
The pathologist must be alerted to religious requests from the family:
a. before the victim’s body is taken from hospital
b. after the autopsy before the body is taken to the funeral home
ABMDI EXAM 2023 VERIFIED 100%
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c. before the victim’s body is taken from the scene
d. only if the religion requires it
e. before the autopsy is performed – Answer e. before the autopsy is performed
Retort – Answer a vessel or chamber in which substances are decomposed by heat
To establish a working relationship with law enforcement personnel at the death
scene, you should:
a. discuss case facts with the officer in charge and proceed appropriately
b. present the statutory citations for your authority to the officer in charge
c. introduce yourself; talk briefly about your responsibilities and listen to theirs
d. wait until your supervisor takes you around and introduces you
e. keep to yourself until you know the facts of the case – Answer c. introduce
yourself; talk briefly about your responsibilities and listen to theirs
When investigating a death, it is best to:
a. use all available resources
b. get all scene investigative information from LE
c. work alone
d. disregard how problems affect personnel
e. not listen to other or ask questions – Answer a. use all available resources
List the key attributes of nonverbal communication – Answer Eye movement, physical
gestures, and facial expressions
Jurisdiction – Answer the power or authority a court or office has over individuals or
trauma
Authorization for organ/tissue procurement is considered valid if:
a. the legal next of kin or representative has given consent
b. an emergency room physician gives permission
c. a donor card with the decedent’s name is found in the wallet or purse
d. the decedent’s physician will verify that donation was the decedent’s request
e. a donor designation appears on the decedent’s drivers license – Answer a. the
legal next of kin or representative has given consent
The deceased is separated from his/her spouse. The NOK would be:
a. oldest surviving relative
b. separated spouse
c. parents
d. siblings
e. adult children – Answer b. separated spouse
Disinterment – Answer the opening of a grave and removal of the body for the
purpose of reexamination or removal to another site
A medicolegal death investigator may release copies of a decedent’s medical
records to:
ABMDI EXAM 2023 VERIFIED 100%
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a. defense attorneys
b. rescue squad members
c. insurance investigators
d. district attorneys
e. none of the above – Answer e. none of the above
Brain death – Answer final cessation of activity in the central nervous system, as
indicated by a flat electroencephalogram (EEG) or absence of cerebral blood flow for
a predetermined period of time
When you are investigating a death, you should:.
a. have law enforcement personnel at the scene with you to summarize the scene
findings
b. allow the family to call the doctor to get the decedent’s medical history
c. write in your narrative your opinion regarding who is responsible for the death
d. avoid asking the family sensitive questions
e. ask who what when where why and how – Answer e. ask who what when where
why and how
Cardiac death – Answer final cessation of activity in the cardiovascular system
involving the heart and blood vessels
Cessation – Answer the final stoppage of action
In constructing a narrative report, the main idea is to relate:
a. the main reason for the death
b. background information regarding the condition of the body
c. your involvement in the case
d. how the deceased was identified
e. an overall and concise view of what happened – Answer e. an overall and concise
view of what happened
Most tissue can be removed from the body up to _ hours from the time of death.
- Answer 24
List the key points to remember when writing a report to other agencies to
use/review. – Answer Information is of little use unless it is properly documented and
communicated to others in a clear and concise manner. Included in the report should
be references to who, what, where, when, how.
What authorizations must be in place before OPO can take place? – Answer Written
permission from the decedent’s legal NOK
Anencephalic – Answer an infant born without a brain
When communicating with the media, it is important for each death investigator to
remember that he/she is:
a. a receiver of both work and personal messages
ABMDI EXAM 2023
If you are called to a hospital’s emergency department to begin the medicolegal
death investigation of a death caused by a firearm, the medicolegal “scene” is
A.the emergency department.
B.the emergency department and any part of the hospital leading from the street to
the room.
C.the whole hospital.
D.any location the decedent may have been prior to death.
E.any location the decedent may have been within the past 24 hours. – Answer A.the
emergency department.
If the deceased is decomposed, mutilated, or burned beyond recognition and the
family insists, for religious or cultural reasons, on viewing the body, the investigator
should:
A.expedite the family’s request for immediate viewing by taking them directly to the
viewing area without delay.
B.refuse their request to view the remains under any circumstances; viewing will take
place after the funeral director assures the investigator that the body is appropriately
prepared.
C.prepare the family before viewing with a verbal explanation and possibly
photographs of the remains.
D.gather all pertinent information from the family after they view the remains.
E.explain to the family that the body is unrecognizable as the person they knew and
that they should hold the memories of the decedent as they knew them. – Answer
C.prepare the family before viewing with a verbal explanation and possibly
photographs of the remains
All of the following are considered common errors investigators make when
collecting evidence EXCEPT which one?
A.Removal of evidence before photographing.
B.Not collecting enough evidence.
C.Not collecting a standard of comparison.
D.Collecting too much evidence.
E.Not recognizing evidentiary value. – Answer D. Collecting too much evidence.
How a witness behaves and appears on the witness stand is called
__________evidence.
A.testimonial
B.demeanor
C.demonstrative
D.reproductive
E.physical – Answer B.demeanor
In a court of law, handling evidence in a “legally acceptable manner” refers to:
A.documenting your collection process.
B.documenting the chain of custody.
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Official pronouncement of death can: – Answer Be defermined by state statute and
local customs.
Authorization to conduct a medicolegal autopsy must be provided by: – Answer The
coroner or medical examiner when jurisdiction is established.
A previously healthy 4 m.o. Infant is found unresponsive in his crib at home. He is
rushed to the hospital, where he is maintained on the respirator for 26 hrs before
being declared dead. No external trauma or disease is noted by the treating
physician. – Answer The coroner has jurisdiction bcuz of the unexplained death of an
infant.
Your office is investigating a suspected SIDS death. You should notify your
statewide SIDS program within: – Answer As soon as possible following the autopsy.
In general, which of the following are NOT normally considered for organ/tissue
procurement purposes? – Answer Reproductive organs
Authorization for organ/tissue procurement is considered valid if: – Answer The
decedents legal next of kin or representitive has given consent.
Brain death: – Answer Final cessation of activity in the central nervous system, as
indicated by a flat electroencephalogram (EEG) or absence of cerebral blood flow for
a predetermined period of time.
Anencephalic: – Answer An infant born without a brain.
Jurisdiction: – Answer The power or authority a court or office has over individuals or
trauma.
The death investigator and a police investigator arrive at the scene within minutes of
each other: – Answer The best approach is a “team” approach to performing the
work.
In constructing a narrative report, the main idea is to relate: – Answer An overall and
concise view of what happened.
Choose one of the most important important communication skills for gathering
information at the scene: – Answer Listen and actively study witnesses.
The pathologist must be altered to religious requests from the family: – Answer
Before the autopsy is performed.
When communicating with the pathologist, a good investigator distinguishes between
a request for information and a request for an opinion. Which type is this, ” what time
was the death pronounced?” – Answer Request for information.
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Common law marriage: – Answer Marriage that is recognized because the couple
have been cohabiting for a determined length of time, but there has been no legal
ceremony.
Disinterment – Answer The opening of a grave and removal of the body for the
purpose of reexamination or removal to another site.
Euphemism – Answer A mild or inoffensive term or phrase that is substituted for
another, more explicit term.
Objective report: – Answer A report made in an independent and unbiased manner,
without regard for personal attitudes or thoughts.
Retort: – Answer A vessel or chamber in which substances are decomposed by heat.
Statutory: – Answer Authorized by law.
When obtaining information about a decadent from family, the first priority should
always be to obtain info from: – Answer The last family member who saw and/or
talked with the decedent, or has first hand knowledge regarding the circumstances
surrounding the death and/or medical history.
Family members often ask why the ME/Coroner is involved. When discussing the
case with family, what is the best prescribed answer to give them? – Answer Explain
what is believed to have occurred (420,405,unexpected death) and why the
ME/coroner is investigating the death.
When investigating a homicide death case, you discover that the victim and surviving
family are Orthodox Jews. The family voice objection to an autopsy being performed.
What is best recommended procedure to follow? – Answer Counsel the family.
Explain the circumstances surrounding the investigation and why (criminal
prosecution) the autopsy needs to be performed.
If the deceased is decomposed, mutilated or burned beyond recognition and the
family still insists, for religious or cultural reasons, on viewing the body, the
investigator should: – Answer Prepare the family before viewing with a verbal
explanation and possibly photographs of the remains.
A clandestine meth. Lab has exploded and the “chemists” body is on the scene. You
may undertake your scene investigaton when: – Answer The fire department and haz
mat team think the scene is safe.
You arrive at an outdoor homicide and find that the crime scene tape binds too small
a perimeter. Onlookers and media are beginning to gather, you should : – Answer
Keep the tape in place and advise the investigating police agency of the need to
enlarge the perimeter.
ABMDI Demonstrating Scientific
Knowledge(Completed)2023
Sings of Death Include: – Answer -Lack of Pulse/Respiration
-Absence of Heartbeat
-Lack of Corneal Reflex and Pupillary Constriction
-Coolness of the Body
-Rigor Mortis
-Livor Mortis
Rigor Mortis – Answer Stiffness of the body that sets in several hours after death
Rigor Mortis (Continued) – Answer -Starts in the smaller muscles (jaw, extremities)
First Indicator appears after 2-4 hours
Maximum Indicator is after 8-12 hours
-Onset and Dissipation of rigor is rapid in children compared to adults
Livor Mortis – Answer The pooling of the blood in tissues after death resulting in a
reddish color to the skin
Livor Mortis (Continued) – Answer -Takes approximately 2-4 hours to develop
-As interval extends, the livor becomes fixed and will not blanch on pressure
-Generally, livor is fixed after 8-12 hours after death
Tardieu Spots – Answer In advance stages of livor mortis, the skin capillaries often
rupture and cause pin point hemorrhages
Eye Changes after Death – Answer -Clouding (occurring 1-2 hours)
-Sclera Dryness (TACHE NOIR)
Body Temperature – Answer -Rate at which bodies cool is NOT uniform!!!
Algor Mortis – Answer Cooling of the body after death
Decomposition Patterns – Answer 24 hours: greenish discoloration of right, lower
abdomen
24-36 hours: greenish discoloration of the abdomen
36-48 hours: marbling, bloating of the face
48-60 hours: desiccation (drying) of the fingertips
60-72 hours: bloating of the body (purging)
4-7 days: skin blebs, hair sloughing, skin slippage
days-weeks: dehydration of the body tissues
weeks-months: adipocere, mummification, skeletonization
Inspect the Body (External: Head) – Answer -Examine the scalp for hidden trauma!
-Lacerations may stick together; bullet wounds may be obscured
-Inspect ears for hemorrhage/foreign bodies
-Evaluate eyes for petechial hemorrhages, jaundice, or trauma
-Oral cavity may reveal trauma, foreign bodies, or evidence of poor hygiene
-Nasal Septum may be perforated due to chronic cocaine abuse
ABMDI Demonstrating Scientific
Knowledge(Completed)2023
Inspect the Body (External: Neck) – Answer -Any identifiable trauma should be
documented
-DO NOT recover specimens from neck veins of homicide victims (it might create
trauma)
-View the posterior neck as well!
-Examine the neck for evidence of enlarged lymph nodes, thyroid, and/or other
masses
-Palpate the neck with PASSIVE flexion and extension to reveal fractures
Inspect the Body (External: Chest) – Answer -Examine the dimensions of the chest,
documenting the anterior-posterior size
-An enlarged, barrel-shaped chest is a sign of chronic lung disease.
-Palpate the breasts for any masses
Inspect the Body (External: Abdomen) – Answer -Palpate the abdomen to detect the
presence of fluid or masses.
-Excessive fluid may represent liver cirrhosis or failure.
-Document recent and remote surgical incisions.
-Trauma may not be readily apparent over the abdominal wall due to the elasticity of
the tissues
Inspect the Body (External: External Genitalia) – Answer -Examine the external
genitalia in the MALE for masses, ulcerations, and surgery.
-Note the presence or absence of circumcision
-IN FEMALE, examine for prolapse of the uterus, masses, trauma, and ulcerations
Inspect the Body (External: Lower Extremities) – Answer -Fractures of the hip are
usually indicated by the shortening and external rotation of the limbs
-Look for any trauma, fractures, burns, and scratches.
-Ascertain the presence of edema or brownish discoloration, suggestive of
congestive heart failure.
Inspect the Body (External: Upper Extremities) – Answer -Examine color and
appearance of fingernails (torn or fractured fingernails may indicate a struggle.
-DO NOT attempt to fingerprint the decedent until trace evidence has been
recovered.
-Examine the antecubital fossae of the arm for the presence of perforations or
hemorrhage, which may indicate drug abuse.
-Examine wrists for scarring, suggestive of past suicide attempts
Inspect the Body (External: Back) – Answer -Inspect the back for evidence of
previous surgery or trauma
Inspect the Body (External: Skin) – Answer -Examine the skin for color, texture,
inflammation, and injury.
-Document any tattoos or other identifying marks
-Yellow jaundice (icterus) is a sign of liver failure
ABMDI Questions (From Book)With
Correct Answers.
Official pronouncement of death can:
a. Be accomplished only by a physician
b. Be accomplished by any medical professional
c. Be accomplished by any responsible party
d. Be accomplished by on-duty police officers
e. Be determined by state statute and local customs – Answer E
Authorization to conduct a medicolegal autopsy must be provided by:
a. The decedent’s next-of-kin
b. The coroner or medical examiner when jurisdiction is established
c. A will or other document signed before death
d. The treating physician
e. All of the above – Answer B
A previously healthy four-month-old infant is found unresponsive in his crib at home.
He is rushed to a hospital, where he is maintained on a respirator for 26 hours before
being declared dead. No external trauma or disease is noted by the treating
physician:
a. The coroner is without jurisdiction because of hospitalization
b. The coroner has jurisdiction because of the unexplained death of an infant
c. The coroner has jurisdiction because of length of hospitalization
d. The absence of trauma precludes the coroner’s having jurisdiction
e. Significant trauma will always be apparent on the surface of the body – Answer B
Your office is investigating a suspected SIDS death. You should notify your
statewide SIDS program within:
a. As soon as possible following the autopsy
b. Within 24 hours of the death
c. Within 48 hours of the death
d. Within 72 hours of the death
e. Within one week of the death – Answer A
In general, which of the following are NOT normally considered for organ/tissue
procurement purposes?:
a. Liver and kidneys
b. Long bones and pelvis
c. Reproductive organs
d. Heart valves
e. Pancreas and skin – Answer C
Authorization for organ/tissue procurement is considered valid if:
a. A donor designation appears on the decedent’s drivers license
b. A donor card with the decedent’s name is found in his/her wallet or purse
c. An emergency room physician gives permission
d. The decedent’s legal next-of-kin or representative has given consent
e. No legal next-of-kin can be located – Answer D
ABMDI Questions (From Book)With
Correct Answers.
The death investigator and a police officer arrive at the scene within minutes of each
other:
a. The police officer is in charge and directs the work
b. The death investigator is in charge and directs the work
c. The best approach is a “team” approach to performing the work
d. Each has specific responsibilities to perform, and they should not interact
e. Work together only if necessary; you represent different agencies – Answer C
In constructing a narrative report, the main idea is to relate:
a. Your involvement in the case
b. The main reason for the death
c. An overall and concise view of what happened
d. How the deceased was identified
e. Background information regarding the condition of the body – Answer C
Choose one of the most important communication skills for gathering information at
the scene:
a. Talk to all neighbors
b. Listen and actively study witnesses
c. Write down your thoughts
d. Avoid eye contact with suspects
e. None of the above – Answer B
The pathologist must be alerted to religious requests from the family:
a. Before the victim’s body is taken from the hospital
b. After the autopsy, before the body is taken to the funeral home
c. Only if the religion requires it
d. Before the autopsy is performed
e. Before the victim’s body is taken from the scene – Answer D
When communicating with the pathologist, a good investigator distinguishes between
a request for information and a request for an opinion. Which type is the following
question: “What time was the death pronounced?”:
a. Request for an opinion
b. Request for information
c. Request for information and opinion
d. Request for assistance
e. None of the above – Answer B
When obtaining information about a decedent from family members, the first priority
should always be to obtain information from:
a. The family member who seems the most stable
b. The family member who last saw and/or talked with the decedent, or has firsthand
knowledge regarding the circumstances surrounding the death and/or medical
history
c. The decedent’s primary care giver or personal physician
d. The family member who is in control of the family unit
e. The police officer who found the body – Answer B
ABMDI Registry(Medicolegal Death
Investigation)Solved 100% Correct!!
The medical examiner/coroner’s office legal authority derived is derived from
_ – Answer State and local laws
Who is responsible for assembling revised state statutes that a county jurisdiction
must adhere to? – Answer Secretary of State
If a county contains a military facility, decisions on death investigations may be made
by the ___________ – Answer Armed Forces Medical Examiner
Deaths on Indian reservations are investigated by the _ – Answer FBI Who must be notified in the event of a commercial plane crash? – Answer NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) Who must be notified in the event of a noncommercial plane crash? – Answer FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) Who must be notified of any job-related deaths? – Answer OSHA Family and Children’s Protection Services are to be notified of any child death to… – Answer Obtain information as to previous referrals on the child’s family The Sudden Infant Death Center must be contacted after a death has been
properly identified – Answer SIDS
Case information should only be released to those persons who are authorized to
receive the information, which is determined by… – Answer Individual office policy
After the death is certified, information on the death certificate is in the
– Answer Public domain
How do child death review teams function? – Answer As confidential, fact finding
groups that exchange detailed information from the ME/coroners among agencies
What is the goal of child death review teams? – Answer To improve the management
outcome and prevention strategies in dealing with childhood deaths
Deaths under the jurisdiction of /_ are the largest single source of
organs and tissues that can be legally donated by a decedents NOK – Answer
ME/coroner
_ must be given by NOK before organs can be donated – Answer
Permission
A medical determination of is required before proceeding with
donation – Answer Brain death
ABMDI Registry(Medicolegal Death
Investigation)Solved 100% Correct!!
Death occurs when there is either cessation of or – Answer Heart,
brain function
The determination of death in a medical setting is the official
pronouncement time on the death certificate – Answer First
and may be obtained in either type of death – Answer Tissue,
bone
Organs may be obtained only in cases in which death occurs – Answer Brain What organs may be recovered for transplantation from brain dead (respirator dependent) individuals? – Answer Heart, lungs, liver, bone marrow, kidneys, pancreas Following the initial organ recovery, what tissues may be removed from individuals with cardiac death (off the respirator)? – Answer Corneas, skin, middle ears, bone, heart valves, tendons Eyes must be removed within hours after death whereas the other tissues may
be removed up to 24 hours after death – Answer 6
When do ME/coroners refuse organ recovery? – Answer In deaths of small children
when there is suspected abuse, SIDS, legally significant accidental deaths
In _ and __, donation is usually allowed – Answer Natural deaths
and common accidents
What conditions would make someone ineligible for organ and or tissue donation? –
Answer AIDS, sepsis, previous history of drug abuse, degenerative disease of bone
and/or nerve, cancer, hepatitis, dementia
What are the 3 major sections of the death certificate? – Answer Cause and manner
of death, demographic information, and disposition of death certificate
How long does the certifier typically have to establish cause and manner of death or
submit a pending DC? – Answer 5 to 7 days
Who is responsible for completing the demographic information (name, place of
birth, place of death, race, education, and name of spouse) on the DC? – Answer
The funeral director
Why is it important to complete and release the DC in a timely manner? – Answer
Delays may result in the family’s inability to receive funds, make insurance claims,
transport the body, close bank accounts, and get closure
Certification of the manner of death has great consequences for… – Answer The
decedents family, institutions, and insurance companies
ABMDI Registry(Medicolegal Death
Investigation)Solved 100% Correct!!
On the DC, where is the immediate cause of death placed? – Answer On line A in
Part I
On the DC, where are the proximate causes placed? – Answer In sequential order for
up to four lines
Diseases injuries, or events, that although they were not the immediate cause and
did not directly relate to death, may have significantly contributed to the death refers
to the _ section of the DC – Answer Other Significant Conditions or Part II
What states require coroners to be medical doctors? – Answer Kansas, Louisiana,
North Dakota, and Ohio
OPO – Answer Organ Procurement Organization
How is brain death determined? – Answer Flat electroencephalogram (EEG) or
absence of cerebral blood flow for a predetermined time
Statute – Answer Laws enacted by the legislative branch of the government
Vital statistics – Answer A governmental agency responsible for maintaining a system
of death records for the public
Hierarchical succession of NOK, in order of priority: – Answer Surviving spouse
Surviving children
Surviving parents
Surviving siblings
Surviving grandparents
Other relatives
Embalm – Answer To preserve the body by draining the blood from the body and
infusing it with alcohols, formaldehyde and dyes under pressure
Where are the preservatives infused on a body during embalming? – Answer Neck
(IV cut downs in jugular) or groin (inguinal vessels) or in the abdomen (trocar
piercing)
What temperatures are bodies incinerated at for prolonged periods during a
cremation? – Answer 1300 to 1800 degrees F
Cremations consist of to __ pounds of ash and bone fragments – Answer 1,3
Who is responsible for assisting in disinterment of a body? – Answer Funeral director
What are the religious beliefs of Orthodox Jews regarding autopsies? – Answer
Object to autopsy but if an autopsy is necessary, it must be performed before
sundown of the day the person died