Processing Human Remains

Question 1

custody

Answer 1

processing the remains and responsible for them

Question 2

jurisdiction

Answer 2

power to make legal decisions over the remains

Question 3

what systems are in place for evidence and lab access?

Answer 3

human remains need to be inaccessible to the public
forensic labs have systems that monitor who enters and exits
need clearance to enter the lab
active cases may be stored in a secure evidence room

Question 4

safety in the lab

Answer 4

autoclaves
immunizations 
biohazard containers 
cleaning products
PPE
eye wash and showers

Question 5

what does forensic anthropology do in the lab?

Answer 5

accession
maceration
analysis
quality assurance

Question 6

accession

Answer 6

the process by which remains become evidence
begins when the forensic anthropologist is given custody of the remains
tracks the movement of evidence from one place to another

Question 7

chain of custody

Answer 7

awareness of the location of evidence at all times

maintenance at a secure location, restricted access, log handling, transport, analysis, and examination

Question 8

case number

Answer 8

unique identifier for the lab

tracks case movement through the lab

Question 9

case log book

Answer 9

includes all cases done in the lab

details the case numbers and some basic info for the case

Question 10

processing log

Answer 10

filled out by lab coordinator/director
details pre-analysis and analytical steps for the case
varies based on the specifics of the case
details who and what preformed procedures

Question 11

case file

Answer 11

holds all paperwork for the case
stored at the lab
holds the chain of custody, analytical forms, photographs, radiographs, testimonies, correspondence, and the final report

Question 12

maceration

Answer 12

process where soft tissue is removed from decomposing or mummified remains
tissue can obscure important skeletal features
remains are deemed biohazardous

Question 13

steps of hot water maceration

Answer 13

1. remove bulk of the tissue
2. disarticulate sections of the body
3. put remains in water
4. place bones on rack to dry
   may take up to 7 days to complete

Question 14

what are the other types of maceration?

Answer 14

cold water, chemical, demisted beetles

Question 15

demisted beetles

Answer 15

consume soft tissues including cartilage and tendons
will not eat outer layer of the skin
can deflesh in 10-14 days
less invasive than other methods