What To Do If You Are Sexually Assaulted.

If you have been sexually assaulted

In case of medical emergency or personal safety dangers please call 911. Otherwise, respond immediately to your nearest Emergency Department to seek medical care and request a sexual assault forensic examination.

In order to receive a forensic examination you must present to the ER within 96 hours of the assault.

Receiving medical care:

During a sexual assault a victim may incur injuries that she/he may not be aware of. It is imperative that a victim receives emergency medical care as soon as possible to be assessed for injuries and other medical concerns. Biological/trace evidence may remain on your body or clothing for up to 96 hours after an assault. When you arrive to the ER you will be informed of your patient right to a forensic exam by a Registered Nurse (SANE) who specializes in the area of sexual assault forensic examinations as well as a Rape Crisis Avdocate.

During the forensic examination you will be assessed for injuries along with documentation of events, collection of biological/trace samples, forensic photography, baseline pregnancy screening and given follow up referrals appropriate to your situation and to assess for safety concerns. We will provide you with safety alternatives if needed such as lists of shelters or othersafety plan measures during your examination.The examination generally takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete.The SANE RN may request your clothing worn to the hospital to preserve evidence that may be present. Replacement clothing will be given to you after the examination if this occurs. Please do not change clothing prior to presenting to the emergency department.

Cost of forensic exam:

If you are a survivor of sexual assault and receive a sexual assault forensic examination within 96 hours after the assault you will not be charged for the forensic examination conducted at a local emergency department or medications provided to you aiding in prevention of certain sexually transmitted diseases that you may have been exposed to during the assault. You may be charged for other medications administered during the course of your treatment or diagnostic testing performed by the emergency room physician if needed. To assist with payment of these expenses you may be eligible to receive funding from the Ohio Crime Victim's Compensation Fund through the Ohio Attorney General's Office.

Steps to preserve forensic evidence on your body:

Please AVOID the folllowing actions to assist in preserving biological or trace evidence on your body or clothing before going to the emergency department for treatment.