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thejsf11 karma

Fellow Medicolegal Death Investigator (Medical Examiner) here. Not sure what state OP works in, but I know in my state (NC) we will run a wide range of tests looking for various pings and will then focus in the results after to identify specific compounds/chemicals. A good resource if you want to see what we look for/can look for: https://www.ocme.dhhs.nc.gov/toxicology/index.shtml

Edit: To answer question #1, at least in NC, "Foul play" is a law enforcement issue, we tend to cover COD/MOD only. I.e we may list "Complications of a subdural hematoma" as the cause of death. It is law enforcement's job to help determine where the head trauma came from. Another good example would be if a hunting accident happens and someone shoots their buddy in the head. When we list "Gunshot wound of the head" as a cause of death with "Homicide" as the manner we are simply stating one person killed another, not the law enforcement side.

Hope that helps

thejsf6 karma

Hospice and organ donation play a HUGE role in our profession and both are amazing. Hospice is purely there to assist people through an emotionally confusing process, all while allowing the decedent the dignity they deserve and giving the family time they will never get back. Hell with that person.

thejsf3 karma

Not OP, just a fellow medical examiner: 100% natural. We have a disease process that explained his deterioration and ultimate demise.

Sorry for your loss