Produce forensic images of the deceased
Overview
SFHCI.O SFHCI.O Forensic imaging is the undertaking of radiographic images in order to collect evidence to be presented in court, which may include the coroner's or procurator fiscal's courts. It includes the taking of conventional radiographic images and cross-sectional imaging This standard covers the forensic imaging of individuals who are deceased. The term individuals in this standard applies to both adults and children and young people. Users of this standard will need to ensure that
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
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verify that appropriate authorisation has been given by the
appropriate authority for imaging of the deceased
ensure that confidentiality is maintained in relation to the present
case under judicial consideration
apply appropriate precautions for infection control and other
appropriate health and safety measures
undertake post-mortem imaging using the available imaging
modality
take account of the post-mortem changes that occur at various
stages and adapt protocol and radiographic technique accordingly
use appropriate cross-sectional imaging protocols optimised for
post-mortem imaging
note indications, signs of significance and preserve evidence
which may assist to determine the cause and/or factors
contributing to fatality
identify post-mortem changes present on radiographic images
apply correct procedures to maintain continuity of radiographic
evidence from the start of the examination to its use in the court
ensure that correct procedures are followed to maintain standards
of digital evidence
ensure that all necessary documentation is completed for the
forensic radiographic examination
produce written statements and contemporaneous notes that
adhere to legal requirements
record, collate and prepare appropriate information,
documentation and images for transfer or storage according to
local protocols
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
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legal, organisational and policy requirements relevant to your role,
the role of others in your organisation and the activities being
carried out
the relevant national and local standards, guidelines, policies,
procedures and evidence-base that are available and how and
when they should be accessed
the legal requirements for radiographic images to be used in
court
the legal requirements for standards of digital evidence
continuity of evidence, including authenticity and integrity of
evidence, throughout the forensic radiographic examination
the national guidelines for forensic radiographic imaging and how
to implement these locally in forensic practice
the documentation and processes required to maintain continuity
of evidence
the legal requirements of a written statement and
contemporaneous notes
the requirement for appropriate authorisation for forensic imaging
purposes
the present case under judicial consideration in relation to forensic
radiographic imaging
how to give evidence in court and the roles of expert witness,
professional witness and witness
the role of the coroner/procurator fiscal in the investigation of
deaths
the roles and responsibilities of the external agencies and health
care practitioners in establishing a cause of death
how forensic radiographic imaging is used in the investigation of
deaths of individuals
the role of post-mortem angiography and pulmonary ventilation in
investigation of deaths
health and safety requirements for post-mortem imaging
infection control requirements for post-mortem imaging
the psychological aspects of forensic imaging and the impact this
may have on those involved in imaging of the deceased
signs and symptoms of stress and how to minimise the risk of
post-traumatic stress disorder on individuals
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how to communicate with colleagues and agencies involved in the
process of forensic imaging under current judicial consideration
the limitations of your own knowledge and experience and the
importance of operating within your scope of practice
the medico-legal justification for the referral for forensic imaging
the radiographic techniques for imaging post-mortem individuals
image interpretation in relation to forensic imaging, crosssectional imaging and post-mortem appearances on forensic
images
the imaging modalities utilised in identification of the deceased for
cause of death and identification purposes
how to keep full, accurate and clear records in line with
organisational procedures
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Scope/range
Scope Performance
Scope Knowledge
Values
Behaviours
Skills
Glossary
Links To Other NOS
External Links
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This standard links with the following dimension within the NHS
Knowledge and Skills Framework (October 2004):
Dimension: HWB6 Assessment and Treatment Planning
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