Which source of injury information is deemed the least reliable?

The patient as a source of injury information is considered the least reliable due to several factors that may influence their account of an incident. First, patients may have limited recall or be in a state of shock or distress, which can affect their memory. They might also have an incentive to present information in a way that minimizes their liability or the seriousness of their injury, particularly if they are concerned about legal repercussions. Furthermore, cognitive biases, the influence of pain, or the effects of medication can result in inaccuracies when a patient recounts an event.

In contrast, other sources such as police reports, emergency department records, and witness statements are typically more systematic and objective. Police reports are based on observations and evidence collected during an investigation, while emergency department records focus on clinical data documented by healthcare professionals. Witness statements are provided by individuals who observed the incident and can often corroborate the events from an impartial perspective. These sources generally offer a more reliable account since they are less likely to be swayed by personal stakes or memory biases.