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Return to Evidence Collection Protocol Index

INTAKE PROTOCOL:

1. In cases where physical trauma is minimal, provide a private waiting area separate from the emergency room waiting area (when possible).

2. Contact Law Enforcement and the Abused Adult Resource Center 222-8370
After Hours -On-Call Staff Cell (222-0868),
Staff Beeper (222-9394) or 1-800-472-2911.

When Law Enforcement and Rape Advocate arrive give brief history of presenting problem and allow them to meet with victim PRIOR TO MEDICAL EXAMINATION!

3. Follow established procedures to obtain victim’s consent for each medical and evidentiary procedure.

4. Work in cooperation with Rape Advocacy services following initial report to respond to victim’s wishes for medical treatment.

Rape Advocate will have explained to the victim their options in terms of medical care. The Rape Advocate will stress the significance of having an evidentiary
examination and the right to refuse to make a complaint even if the evidentiary exam is conducted.

5. Take medical history. Collect details of the assault from the Law Enforcement Officer. Re-confirm with the victim specific aspects of the incident that are required to do the medical examination. (This is used to evaluate pregnancy risk and evidence)

Date, Time and Place

Body orifices involved

Did assailant ejaculate and where on the body

Menstrual History-date of the last menstrual period,
menstrual abnormalities, length of usual
menstruation, time of last consensual intercourse,
current medications and contraceptives etc.

6. Offer Victim Prophylactic Treatment for sexually
transmitted diseases and possible pregnancy.

Forensic Evidentiary -Examination:

 It is important that the medical examination process be thoroughly explained to the victim prior to the exam being conducted to allow the victim time to
emotionally prepare herself (Be alert to dissociative symptoms (flashbacks) victims may encounter during the examination).

 Also be conscious of whether or not this is the FIRST pelvic examination that the victim has had (Happens with many young adults and adolescents)! If this is the case the examination itself will need to be explained in more detail.

1. Conduct the examination in accordance with established evidence collection procedures. Note: The use of K-Y Jelly for examinations is PROHIBITED as it destroys the evidence! Saline solution may be used to provide comfort for the victim.

2. Allow victims their right to have a Rape Advocate or a support person of their choosing to be present during the examination.

3. Once evidence is collected follow all custody guidelines.

Medical Examination:

1. Direct Primary attention to the immediate medical needs of the victim.

2. Discuss results of the evidentiary examination. Did any injuries result etc.

3. Inform the victim about possible pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, testing for HIV infection, AIDS, and prophylactic steps to avoid pregnancy and
infection.

Discuss follow-up testing. Stress the importance of this follow-up and give written information on follow-up times or schedule follow-up appointments when possible.

If the victim does not have money to purchase prescription medication the Rape Advocate can provide assistance with obtaining the medication.

4. Give the victim WRITTEN information in relation to any medication that they have been given and potential side effects.

5. Victim should be given hospital phone number or other contact number for medical questions.

6. Reassure the victim about whether or not the doctor found any sign of injury during the medical examination and discuss self-care.

7. Allow Rape Advocate to assist victim in making safety plan and agreement for follow-up services.