What protocol should be instituted when collecting evidence from a victim at the hospital?

When collecting evidence from a victim at the hospital, instituting a chain of custody is crucial. The chain of custody refers to the process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence. This process begins as soon as evidence is collected and continues through to its presentation in court. By adhering to chain of custody protocols, analysts ensure that the integrity of the evidence is preserved; it establishes who collected the evidence, how it has been stored, and any individuals who have had access to it.

Proper chain of custody is essential for the admissibility of evidence in legal proceedings, as it helps to prevent any claims of tampering or contamination. Establishing the chain of custody provides a clear trail from the moment the evidence is gathered until it is presented in court, reinforcing the reliability of the evidence gathered from the hospital setting.

While documentation of the victim's statement is important for context, and scene sketching or witness interviews can provide valuable information, they do not directly address the protocols necessary for maintaining the integrity and reliability of evidence.