Role of Forensic Pathologist

Written by Dr. D. Rao

 

Responsibilities of Forensic Pathologist

 


I. The Log and Documentation of the Facts
  1. - date and time of case, Name of person calling. The address and point of place whenever body is found / produced for autopsy.
  2. - Background information and circumstance of death,
  3. - All opportunities utilized to proceed immediately to the scene.
In preparing for investigation it is advisable to carry a kit with the following articles
  1. - Note book and pen
  2. - Camera with films and flashbulbs
  3. - Syringe with 4 inch. Size 15 needle and containers
  4. - Thermometer with temp ranges of 0o to 120o F
  5. - Measuring tape
  6. - Pair of gloves
  7. - Small plastic bags and labels
  8. - Flashlight
  9. - Stethoscope
At scene call police and work in cooperation with them.

He can proceed with investigation along following lines
  1. - Obtain information about the circumstances of death and the background of descendent
  2. - Make observation about the overall scene
  3. - Photograph the scene and the body, before any thing is moved, and if indicated after the body is moved
  4. - Examine the body carefully, Collect evidence like fingerprint,Nails scrapings,Swabs,Clothes,Weapon etc

II. PRONOUNCEMENT OF DEATH


III. IDENTIFICATION

If skeletal/Decomposed, look for evidence such as personal effects. Wallet, paper, materials from pockets of the decedent cloths. If not make further inquires and a complete autopsy should be carried out.


IV. CASE OF DEATH


V. MANNER OF DEATH


VI. TIME OF DEATH


Circumstances of death + taking the scene along history of the where about of the decedent + factors affecting changes in the body


VII. COLLECTION OF PHYSICAL EVIDENCE

After measurements and the photographs are made and the finger prints taken, the weapon, if found at the scene, shall be taken into custody and placed cordially in a container. Other materials and  evidential values such as hair, nails and objects, clothing on which there are stains should be collected in sample quantity and retained in transparent plastic bags. In a case of suspected  poisoning. The bottles, boxes, vomit and even fecal matter of the scene should be all- labeled chain of custody maintained.


If death due to natural retain blood and urine samples-poisoning.