TABLE 127.2 FORENSIC EVIDENCE COLLECTION KIT Use a standardized forensic evidence kit that meets the requirements of the police jurisdiction in your location The exact content of the kit may vary based on the jurisdiction but in general most kits will include the following items: Container (box) in which most of the evidence will be placed Form for obtaining authorization to collect and release evidence and information to law enforcement Checklists to guide history taking, physical examination, and specimen collection Evidence seals and biohazard labels Form for documenting chain of custody Labels for identifying information and evidence Paper bags to hold clothing and other bulky items that not fit in container a Envelopes or other containers for collection of debris, nail scrapings, hair, etc Several cotton swabs for collection of specimens and glass slides b Tubes or containers for collection of secretions Buccal swabs and/or blood sample tubes for blood typing and DNA analysis Combs for scalp and/or pubic hair combings Instrument for obtaining nail scrapings and/or cuttings Gauze or swabs for saliva sample Other items that may be needed but that are not necessarily in the kit include: Camera or colposcope system for photographic documentation Alternate light source Forensic swab dryer and rack a Plastic bags should not be used for evidence collection because they retain moisture which can lead to degradation of evidence b Slides may be included if the forensic laboratory prefers that the swabs be made into slides at the hospital Other forensic laboratories may prefer that the swabs be placed in envelopes or containers without slides being made