American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) Practice Exam

Which agency must be promptly notified if a waitress unexpectedly dies from bacterial meningitis?

1. Food and Drug Administration

2. Department of OSHA

3. Department of Public Health

4. Department of Children and Family Services

The correct answer is: Department of Public Health

The correct choice involves notifying the Department of Public Health if a waitress unexpectedly dies from bacterial meningitis. This is because bacterial meningitis is a communicable disease that can pose a significant public health risk. The Department of Public Health is responsible for monitoring and controlling the spread of infectious diseases, investigating outbreaks, and initiating public health measures to prevent further transmission. When there is an unexpected death from a communicable disease, it is crucial for public health authorities to assess the situation for potential outbreaks and determine if any public health interventions are necessary. This includes tracking the source of the infection, informing the public, and providing guidance to prevent further cases. In contrast, while the Food and Drug Administration oversees food safety, its role is not directly related to individual cases of disease. The Department of OSHA is primarily focused on workplace safety and health standards rather than communicable disease management. The Department of Children and Family Services deals with issues related to child welfare and social services, which does not pertain to the situation of an adult worker's unexpected death from meningitis.