Death investigation report forms (DIRFs): generic forms for investigators (IDIRFs) and certifiers (CDIRFs)

On the basis of data collection procedures and forms used in various death investigation offices, we developed generic death investigation report forms (DIRFs). One form was designed for documenting information collected by the initial investigator of death, and another form was designed for documenting information collected by the medical examiner, pathologist, or other person who certifies the death or otherwise finalizes the investigation by determining the cause, manner, and circumstances of death. The benefits, problems, and criteria associated with designing the forms are discussed. Both the investigators DIRF (IDIRF) and the certifier's DIRF (CDIRF) are available in printed or electronic form for those who wish to use them or to modify them according to their specific needs. We hope that these DIRFs will be useful and promote uniformity in documenting death investigations.