Support for victim-survivors of sexual violence

It may be difficult to know what to do or who can help after sexual assault or exploitation. At Regions Hospital, we can help. Our team of specially trained nurses, called forensic nurse examiners (FNE), supports people who have experienced sexual violence. We will provide trauma-informed, patient-centered care, and can assist with forensic evidence collection.

Sexual assault is sexual contact or behavior that is committed or attempted by another person with someone who does not or cannot give consent. Consent for sexual activity must be freely given without pressure or manipulation. Sexual violence can happen to anyone regardless of age, income, appearance or lifestyle. No matter what the circumstances, sexual violence is never the victim-survivor’s fault.

Sometimes a person may not remember what happened to them but is worried they may have been sexually assaulted. Regions Hospital Emergency Center can offer you medical care and evidence collection if you believe something happened sexually that you did not agree to.

You should have a medical forensic exam if you believe something sexual was done to you without your consent. Our team of forensic nurses will work with you to provide care that aligns with your priorities. During the exam, will we address both the physical and emotional trauma that occur during a sexual assault.

If you desire to make a report with law enforcement, evidence can be collected that may be used by the legal system to investigate and pursue criminal charges. However, you do not need to work with law enforcement in order to receive care from our team.

Both evidence collection and the administration of certain preventive medications for pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections are time sensitive. It’s best to come to Regions Hospital Emergency Center as soon as possible. However, the exam can take place up to 10 days after the assault occurred. Our team of forensic nurse examiners are available 24/7.

Come to Regions Hospital Emergency Center 24/7. If you are severely injured or in danger, call 911.

Try not to wash any evidence away. If possible:

• Don’t take a bath or shower
• Don’t eat or drink if there was oral contact
• Keep on or bring in the clothing you had on at the time of the assault and/or immediately after the assault.

Nursing and medical staff will make sure you are stable for and want a sexual assault exam.

If you would like an exam, a forensic nurse examiner will discuss the assault with you and perform a detailed examination. They will only provide the care that you want. Some of the options available to you may include:

• A head-to-toe assessment with detailed documentation of all findings. This can include sample collection and forensic photography.
• Assessment of individual risk for pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections and HIV, as well as prescriptions for preventive medications when appropriate.
• Possible administration of medications that can prevent pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections and HIV.
• Referrals for resources and support after leaving the Emergency Center, including a detailed follow-up plan and assistance with scheduling appointments.

We will call an advocate from Ramsey County SOS Sexual Violence Services. The advocate is a person who comes to the Emergency Center to be with you and provide support to you during this difficult time, as well as after you leave the hospital.

The cost of the exam is paid for by the state of Minnesota. If additional medical care beyond the exam is needed, the patient or their insurance will be billed.

The discussion about your assault will be very detailed and sensitive. To make sure you can speak freely, support persons will not be allowed in the room during the discussion. However, they may be with you at any other time if you want them there.