American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) Practice Exam

Who should the investigator prioritize when obtaining information about a decedent?

1. the most stable family member

2. the family member with firsthand knowledge of circumstances

3. the decedent's primary care physician

4. a police officer present at the scene

The correct answer is: the family member with firsthand knowledge of circumstances

Prioritizing the family member with firsthand knowledge of circumstances is crucial because they are likely to provide the most accurate and detailed information regarding the decedent's last moments, interactions, and any pertinent events leading up to their death. This firsthand insight allows for a more thorough understanding of the context and any critical factors that may need to be considered in the investigation. While other individuals, such as stable family members, primary care physicians, or police officers, may also offer relevant information, their insights may not capture the immediate context surrounding the decedent's situation as effectively as a family member directly involved. The stability of a family member may not guarantee accurate or significant information, as they might lack specific knowledge of recent events. Furthermore, although a primary care physician can provide medical history and insights relating to health, they may not have the critical details concerning the circumstances of death. Similarly, police officers present at the scene might have a broader perspective on the investigation but may not possess the intimate knowledge necessary for understanding the personal circumstances impacting the decedent's situation. Thus, focusing on the family member with firsthand knowledge ensures that the investigator gathers the most relevant and immediate information essential for the investigation.