|
STEP 13
VICTIM INFORMATION FORM |
| See Appendix
E. |
| The
discussion of follow-up services for both medical and
counseling purposes is an important aspect of treating the
sexual assault victim. |
| Before the
victim leaves the hospital, a "Victim Information Form"
should be completed. The type and dosage of any medication
prescribed or administered should be recorded on the first
portion of this form. |
| Victims
should be encouraged to obtain follow-up tests for
possible pregnancy, sexually transmitted infection, and
urinary tract or other infections at two weeks, three
months, and six months after the initial hospital visit.
Many hospitals report that the majority of sexual assault
victims initially treated at their facility do not return
for these follow-up tests. |
| One reason
for failure of a victim to return is self-denial of the
assault or of the need for follow-up testing especially if
no unusual symptoms are experienced, are two reasons for
the failure of a victim to return. Another reason is
inadequate information provided by many hospitals
concerning the necessity for follow-up treatment. |
| Therefore, it
is vital that both written and verbal information be
provided at the initial visit, including the location of a
public health clinic or a referral to a private physician
for medical follow-up if the victim does not wish to
return to the treating hospital. SANE and victim advocates
can be helpful in explaining the need for a return visit
and what kinds of tests should be performed. |
| The second
portion of the "Victim Information Form" should be used
for the recording of follow-up counseling information. An
appointment should be recommended or scheduled with a
trained hospital counselor, social worker or psychologist
in the community who is known to provide quality service.
The advocate can assist in scheduling the appointment. |
| While
encouragement should be given to seek follow-up
counseling, the victim’s decision to do so must be
voluntary. For many reasons, some victims may be reluctant
to talk with a counselor. However, they are more likely to
participate in follow-up counseling if counseling has been
coordinated with the examination process. |
| The original
copy of the "Victim Information Form" should be given to
the victim and a second copy retained for the hospital’s
records. |
