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After a domestic violence incident or after sexual assault, you may want to get your injuries documented for potential future prosecution of your assailant for their crime against you. Forensic nurse examiners gather this vital information.
An advocate will be there for you at the time of the forensic exam. Your advocate will explain the exam, and, with your consent, speak with any family member or friend accompanying you.
Your advocate will be with you during the exam for emotional support and after, will provide you with an information packet to answer any questions you may have about the legal process, medical issues, and your feelings after the crime.
The forensic exam may include evidence collection such as photographic documentation of injuries. You also may be evaluated and treated for sexually transmitted infections and evaluated for pregnancy risk if you were sexualliy assaulted.
All of this is performed by a Forensic Nurse Examiner, specially trained to provide comprehensive medical and forensic exams to victims of assault. Types of exams include sexual assault, domestic violence, strangulation, elder abuse, child physical abuse and suspect examinations. They use cutting-edge, forensic technology to document injuries.
The nurses follow up with victims after initial exams to ensure their health and safety regarding medical concerns related to the assault.
