Empowering Survivors: 5 Critical Steps After Sexual Assault

The aftermath of a sexual assault can be an incredibly challenging and confusing time for survivors. Knowing what to do and where to turn for help is crucial.

In this guide, we’ll outline five critical steps that survivors should take after such a traumatic event. These steps are aimed at providing both immediate care and long-term support to survivors of sexual assault.

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

After a sexual assault, seeking medical attention is the first and most important step. It’s recommended to go to a healthcare facility as soon as possible, ideally one equipped with Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs). These specially trained professionals can provide the necessary medical care and conduct a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE). This exam not only ensures better health outcomes for survivors but also preserves vital evidence for potential legal action, should you choose to take that step later on.

Step 2: Preserve Evidence

Preserving evidence is crucial for any potential legal action. Try not to change your clothes, bathe or shower, comb your hair, use the bathroom, smoke, or eat/drink before seeking medical attention. These actions can potentially destroy evidence related to the assault. However, if you’ve already done any of these things, it’s essential to know that you can and should still have a forensic exam performed.

Step 3: Find a Forensic Nurse (SANE)

Locating a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) is essential for receiving specialized care and support. While there isn’t a single national database for forensic nurses, you can use resources like:

• The International Association of Forensic Nurses’ national program database.
• State-specific forensic nurse databases if available.
• Contacting a local sexual assault service provider for guidance.

Ensure you call the facility beforehand to confirm that they offer sexual assault nurse examiner services, as program availability can vary.

Step 4: Understanding the Forensic Exam Process

Forensic exams are patient-centered, meaning you have control throughout the process. You can choose to stop, pause, or skip any part of the exam, and you can have an advocate present to support you. The exam typically includes:

• Immediate care for urgent injuries.
• A review of your medical history.
• A thorough physical examination, which may involve internal exams, collecting samples, and documenting injuries.
• Follow-up care, such as pregnancy and STD testing. The examiner may schedule a follow-up and connect you with local advocacy and mental health resources.

Step 5: Know Your Rights

As a sexual assault survivor, you have rights, as outlined in the federal Survivors’ Bill of Rights. You cannot be denied a forensic exam, whether or not you choose to report the assault to the police. You have the right to this exam, irrespective of your cooperation with law enforcement. It’s your choice whether to involve the police immediately, later on, or not at all. Healthcare workers are mandated to report cases involving minors, elders, or persons with disabilities. Still, you are not obligated to cooperate with law enforcement.

Cost of Care

One important thing to note is that forensic exams are free nationwide, thanks to federal law. If you decide to report the assault to law enforcement, you may be eligible for victim compensation, which can cover related expenses such as transportation, additional medical treatment, mental health counseling, and lost wages.

Conclusion

Survivors of sexual assault should never feel alone during this difficult journey. These five steps are designed to empower survivors with the knowledge and resources needed to take control of their situation and access the care and support they deserve. Remember, you have rights, and there are professionals and organizations dedicated to helping you through this challenging time.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, don’t hesitate to seek the necessary medical attention and support. You are not alone, and there is help available to guide you towards healing, justice, and the compensation you may deserve.

Source: Five critical steps victims of sexual assault should take after the crime | USA Today