Forensic examiner technology to enhance documentation and data collection standardization

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Interpersonal violence results in adverse individual, interpersonal, community, and societal impacts, including medical and legal burdens. In many cases, interpersonal violence is reported for the first and often only time in a hospital-based setting where injuries are documented by a forensic examiner.

AIM: To describe ways in which technology can enhance the documentation of forensic and medical evidentiary exams and improve information-sharing.

METHODS: A narrative literature review and qualitative synthesis of 35 articles was conducted.

RESULTS: Relevant trends in applying digital technologies to improve documentation quality and processes, standardization, and de-siloing systems, and to outline resource limitations were identified.

CONCLUSIONS: Standardization and improved documentation can improve the quality and consistency of exams and provide other benefits to patients, such as improved holistic care. Resource constraints can act as a barrier to implementing standardized documentation practices, information sharing, and deployment of new technologies.