What should the EMT do when preserving evidence at a crime scene?

The correct answer is D. Use the knife holes to remove clothing.

When EMS providers are at a crime scene, their role is to preserve evidence while providing patient care. This includes minimizing disturbance of physical evidence.

Why D is correct:

When removing clothing, EMTs should cut around holes such as knife or bullet holes, not through them.

This preserves important forensic evidence (e.g., wound patterns, weapon characteristics).

It is a standard evidence-preservation technique taught in EMS.

Why the other options are incorrect:

A. Use gloves to tag possible evidence → EMTs should avoid handling or tagging evidence unless necessary

B. Take pictures to document the scene → EMS providers do not photograph scenes; this is law enforcement’s role

C. Leave a deceased person uncovered → The deceased should be treated with dignity and typically covered unless directed otherwise

Exact Extracts:

“Avoid cutting through holes in clothing; cut around them to preserve evidence.”

“Do not disturb the scene more than necessary.”

“Preserve evidence while providing patient care.”