Cases where photographs may be helpful:
(1) abuse
(2) worker's compensation injuries
(3) gunshot or knife wounds
(4) bowel perforations
(5) foreign bodies
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Type of Camera
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Advantages
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Disadvantages
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instant (Polaroid)
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photographs immediately available
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closeup pictures may be of poor quality unless the proper lens attachment is used
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35 mm film
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good optics
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film needs to be developed
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digital camera
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photographs can be printed immediately, usually good optics
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media may be affected by magnetic or electrical fields
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Guidelines:
(1) Obtain a consent to take the photographs.
(2) When possible, the photographs should be taken before any therapy is given.
(3) Color pictures are preferred.
(4) Include the patient's face in at least 1 picture.
(5) Use an object (ruler, coin, etc.) to indicate relative size.
(6) Include both full body and close-up pictures.
(7) Take at least 2 photographs of each area of interest. Take photographs from different angles.
(8) If instant pictures are taken, label each immediately with the patient's name, the site shown in the photograph, the date and time.
(9) If film or digital media is used, a list describing each photograph should be made. The media should be handled with chain of custody. Film should be developed at a laboratory qualified for handling legal work.
(10) The photographs and any media should be sealed in an envelope that is placed in the patient's medical record or stored in Risk Management.
(11) Document the patient's name, the photographer, the data and time, and witnesses present.
