Sudden Death/Coroner

Question 1

What is the purpose of post mortem examinations, and who authorises and performs them?

Answer 1

Purpose is to determine the cause of death and coroner has authority over who is present and authorises a pathologist carries out the examination.

Question 2

Describe the circumstances in which an inquest must be held

Answer 2

SIC
Suicide
Institutional
Cause unknown

Question 3

What is the purpose of an inquest?

Answer 3

Establish the;

Fact that the person has died,
The identity of the deceased,
Cause of death,
Where & when the death occurred,
Circumstances of the death.

Question 4

What deaths are to be reported/ SCUMBIE (section 13, Coroners Act)

Answer 4

Suicide,
Cause unknown,
Unnatural,
Medical,
Birth,
Institutional,
Enactment.

Question 5

When should you report the death to the coroner?

Answer 5

Immediately under section 15

Question 6

What are the processes involved in dealing with sudden deaths?

Answer 6

Undertake first aid if appropriate,
Carry out and initial scene examination,
Verify death has occurred,
Obtain medical certificate as to cause of death,
Formally identify the decease,
Remove the deceased to the mortuary.

Question 7

What three factors must you consider before deciding on what action to take in a missing person situation?

Answer 7

Their age, zone of safety and circumstances