Overview
What are long-term psychological effects of sexual assault?
Anxiety, depression, PTSD, dissociation, and difficulty with trust.
What're key clinical indicators of sexual assault?
These physical and behavioral signs such as unexplained genital injuries, STIs, anxiety, and withdrawal.
What is the first thing to ensure with sexual assault victims
Their safety and physical well-being
What documentation should you obtain prior to a possible expected assault?
No contact/restraining order
What is the best timeframe to collect forensic evidence after the sexual assault?
Within 72 hours after the SA
Who or what group is more likely to experience sexual assault/violence?
Women and ethnic minority groups.
What is a trauma-informed screening approach for sexual assault?
Asking open-ended questions, nonjudgemental questions in a private setting while ensuring patient safety and consent.
Building trust with patients helps create a what?
An open environment
How should you provide evidence of harassment prior to assault?
Documentation of every interaction with the offender.
What infectious disease test is highlighted as part of the screening
Rapid HIV diagnostic testing
What age group of females are 4x more likely to experience rape or attempted rape?
16-19 years of age
What are community resources and referrals for SA survivors?
Rape crisis centers, SANE programs, hotlines like the National Sexual Assault Hotline, and mental health counseling services.
What should you obtain before any physical contact with the patient?
Informed consent
Give examples on how to effectively cope with trauma from SA.
Joining a support group, counseling, self-care and avoiding isolation.
Which imaging modalities are mentioned for detecting injuries?
CT and MRI