Question

Laboratory analysis of blood and body fluids can reveal important information in the investigation of deaths that are due to therapeutic complications. The best way to ensure that laboratory testing reveals the actual conditions at the time of death is to__________.

1) Rely on the post-mortem samples drawn at autopsy.
2) Secure hospital laboratory test results in lieu of samples.
3) Immediately secure all antemortem blood and body fluid samples from the hospital.
4) Have the hospital run additional tests on the antemortem samples.
5) None of the above

Answer 1

To ensure accurate laboratory testing in cases of deaths due to therapeutic complications, it is best to rely on post-mortem samples drawn at autopsy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best way to ensure that laboratory testing reveals the actual conditions at the time of death in cases of deaths due to therapeutic complications is to rely on the post-mortem samples drawn at autopsy. Autopsy samples are collected directly from the body after death, providing a more accurate representation of the person's condition at the time of death. Antemortem samples collected before death may not accurately reflect the conditions at the time of death due to the potential for changes or degradation of the samples.