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Appendix E – Sexual Assault Discharge and
Follow-Up Planning

After the trauma of the assault and the lengthy. intense exam, and speaking with police, the victims will be exhausted and likely have difficulty remembering instructions. It is very important to write as much down as possible and to send written materials with the victim. She will likely have many more questions after she gets home and gets some rest. Ask the victim if you can contact her after discharge to see how she is doing or has any questions. Whenever possible, it is best for the SANE to arrange a follow up appointment for medical care for the victim. The victim may choose to see her primary care provider, otherwise refer her to follow up at Fargo Cass Public Health. Ask the victim if you can make the appointment for her and how to reach her with the appointment time. A follow-up phone call (with the victim’s permission) should be made to make sure the victim is doing OK. has any questions or if she needs help making her appointments.

Specific topics to include in discharge instructions are:

1. Explain that no STD testing was done at this exam. She did not have a   Pap smear (that is a test specifically for cancer). The swabs collected were for forensic evidence.

2. Explain she was treated for STDs (if applicable). Give the names of the
medications; explain they are used to prophylacticaly treat chlamydia,
gonorrhea, trichomonas, and bacterial vaginosis. Also explain side effects of
medications.

3. Explain pregnancy risk and prevention. If Plan B was given. provide written pamphlet on use and side effects.

4. Advise patient to avoid sex until follow-up exams provide evidence she has not contracted any STDs.

5. Give pamphlets on symptoms of STDs and explain need for follow-up exam if symptoms occur.

6. Explain need for medical follow-up exams. Provide sheet with dates and
testing. Have the victim sign the "Release of Information" form to give the
clinic any records from the initial visit.

7. Encourage victim to follow-up with Rape and Abuse Crisis Center for
counseling.

8. Provide information on financial help.

Discharge Summary  Page 1   Page 2

Used with permission of Meritcare Hospital, Fargo.