Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations
Evidence Integrity
Recommendations at a glance for health care providers and other responders to maximize evidence integrity:
- Follow jurisdictional policies for drying, packaging, labeling, and sealing evidence.
- Follow jurisdictional policies for consistent evidence management and distribution. A duly authorized agent should transfer evidence from the exam site to an appropriate crime laboratory or other designated storage site.
- Develop storage procedures that maximize evidence preservation. Ensure that storage areas are secure and the proper temperature for evidence.
- Make sure that jurisdictional policies are in place to address storage of evidence in cases where patients are undecided about reporting.
- Maintain the chain of custody for the evidence. Educate all those involved in handling, documenting, transferring, and storing evidence regarding the specifics of properly preserving evidence and maintaining the chain of custody.
Go to the Next Section: Evidence Integrity > Policies to dry, package, label, and seal evidence
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