Forensics Journal - Stevenson University 2012 | Page 14

STEVENSON UNIVERSITY

with injuries leading to the demise of the person. Some of these cases
were prosecuted. Others were identified, provided medical interventions leading to recovery physically but had the mental injuries to
contend with often taking much longer to resolve.

• Certified Abbreviated Injury Scale Coder
For five years I worked for the Department of Defense (DoD) working for the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System (AFMES) at the
Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP). I was a part of the team
in the mortality surveillance division where we examined all cases of
combat mortality. The focus of the work was primary prevention and
to determine ways to decrease morbidity and mortality in combat
zones. My role was looking at injuries sustained to the deceased and
to strategize on ways to improve the personal protective equipment
for the person. I collaborated with a team of individuals who also
investigated direct and peripheral aspects related to safety of the soldier. Specific aspects we investigated were the design and functionality
of the combat helmet, the Small Arms Protective Plates (SAPI) worn
in combat and other gear meant to improve the survivability of those
serving our country.

Not all trauma centers currently focus on the legal aspects of the
trauma. The first concern is always saving a life! However, in these
situations much forensic evidence can be lost. Instituting a forensic
team to work in tandem with the trauma team, one can preserve the
necessary trace evidence for prosecution. Working with law enforcement the forensic nurse can photograph and document the areas of
injury, collect trace evidence found on the victim and ensure that
when possible the trauma team, for exa \K\