What level of detail is appropriate when describing injuries in a report?

• A. Describe the emotions of the injured person.
• B. Describe type, location, severity, and treatment; avoid speculation about cause or medical opinions beyond training.
• C. Only mention that there was an injury, without details.
• D. Include speculative causes and medical opinions beyond training.

Answer: (B)

When describing injuries in a report, stick to objective, observable details: specify the type of injury (for example, laceration, fracture, contusion), the exact location on the body, the severity (mild, moderate, severe) and any immediate treatment or actions taken (pressure applied, dressing, transport to a medical facility). This level of detail keeps the report accurate, usable for investigations and medical personnel, and avoids injecting judgment or unsupported conclusions. Do not speculate about how the injury occurred or offer medical opinions beyond what you’re trained to assess. Emotions or feelings of the injured person aren’t the focus unless they directly affect actions taken, but they aren’t the core detail of the injury description.