Forensics - Death Investigation Flashcards
What is the proximate cause of death?
The actual, true cause of death
What is an example of the proximate cause of death?
Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
What is the mechanism of death - “immediate”?
Final pathophysiological event
The actual, true cause of death
Proximate cause of death
Final Pathophysiological event
Mechanism of death (immediate)
What is the manner of death opinion based on?
Everything known about the history of the deceased, the circumstances around the death and the autopsy
In rendering a manner of death, what can be considered?
Anything relevant
What are the manners of death?
NASHU
- Natural
- Accident
- Suicide
- Homicide
- Undetermined
What is an example of an undetermined manner of death?
SIDS
Homicide
Life was taken by another person
Murder
Legal charge
What are the manners of death?
NASHU
- Natural
- Accident
- Suicide
- Homicide
- Undetermined
How does accurate death certification serve the public interest?
Research money is spent on diseases of most significant mortality and morbidity. Accurate death certification is vital in ascertaining the magnitude of disease that are the most concerning to the population!
Who may legitimately certify death in the U.S.?
Natural deaths = Licensed physicians
All other manners of death = legally appointed Medical Examiner, or coroner, or justice-of-the-peace
If there is even a doubt a foul play in a natural death, who will legitimately certify the death in the U.S.?
Medical Examiner!
Rigor Mortis
Stiffening of muscle groups after death
When does Rigor Mortis occur?
Within a few hours but depends on the temperature
Algor Mortis
Cooling of the body after death - rarely done with precision
Liver Mortis
Movement of circulating blood to dependent areas of the body