title: Evidence based practice: laboratory feedback informs forensic specimen collection in NSW.
abstract: The importance of having clear, evidence-based guidelines for the taking of forensic samples from suspects detained in police custody (persons of interest) and complainants of crime is essential for forensic practitioners. The need for such guidelines was seen as desirable in New South Wales (NSW) and a working group was set up comprising scientists, practitioners and police. Feedback from the laboratory regarding the results of the specimens taken by forensic practitioners throughout the State was received and analysed. This has resulted in changes to current practice and highlighted the need for further research in this area. It has also highlighted areas that have not changed in response to evidence A quality service demands transparency, process review, relevant research and feedback in order to progress. Examiners need to obtain the results for their cases in order to reinforce the value of the service they provide as well as to monitor and, where necessary, improve their forensic collection skills.
authors.affiliation: Forensic Medical Unit, Level 2 Administration and Education Building, Blacktown Hospital, Marcel Crescent, Blacktown, NSW 2148, Australia. Electronic address: Maria.Nittis@swahs.health.nsw.gov.au.
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Nittis
authors.affiliation: Clinical Forensic Medicine Unit, Level 5 SPC, 151-241 Goulburn Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010, Australia. Electronic address: star1mar@police.nsw.gov.au.
authors.forename: Margaret
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Stark
mesh_terms: D016172:DNA Fingerprinting; D055317:Evidence-Based Practice; D005246:Feedback; D005260:Female; D005554:Forensic Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007753:Laboratories / Q000592:standards*; D008297:Male; D008485:Medical Audit; D009517:New South Wales; D011786:Quality Control; D058996:Quality Improvement; D012742:Sex Offenses; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000592:standards*; D000078329:Workforce
keywords: DNA; Evidence-based guidelines; Forensic specimens; Sexual assault