About This Treatment
At Franciscan Health Center of Hope locations, victims of sexual assault or rape receive prompt and undivided attention in a private, non-traumatic, compassionate manner. We value a victim-centered approach that allows for specially trained forensic nursing staff to offer one-on-one care and guidance to patients and accompanying support throughout the exam process.
A sensitive, professional response team
Sensitivity and compassion are cornerstones of our trauma-informed staff and are reflected in the care and services they provide. Staff may include collaboration with the following:
- Forensic Nurse Examiners / Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners and medical providers
- Victim Advocacy with patient consent
- Law Enforcement - with victim consent unless a minor
- Department of Child Services
- Adult Protective Services
- Local or Regional Human Trafficking Agencies
Medical care from specially trained clinicians
Forensic Nurse Examiners are specially trained health care providers who use a trauma-informed approach to care. Our forensic and medical staff will obtain a health history, collect and preserve evidence and maintain that chain of custody, all the while meeting your emergent health care needs.
On staff at each Center of Hope locations are forensic clinicians, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, or medical providers who can provide the following treatment options:
- Medical care
- Prophylactic medications – treatment for possible STI exposures and possible pregnancy
- Forensic evidence collection, evidence preservation, injury identification and documentation
- Follow-up medical referrals
- Provide post-assault resources in the community and surrounding areas for a continuum of care
If you are assaulted
Victims age 18 years or older have the option to decide if they want to report a crime; if undecided, an anonymous kit may be provided and held for approximately 365 days.
It is mandatory to report a crime to law enforcement and child protective services (CPS) for victims age 17 years and younger.
Evidence collection can vary greatly, when in doubt, please reach out to our facility.
If you, or someone you know, has been assaulted:
- Go to the nearest Center of Hope – located in our Franciscan Health Emergency Department – to seek medical attention for your immediate health and well-being from our compassionate, trauma-informed staff.
- Report the crime immediately; our medical staff can assist victims in reaching out and reporting a crime.
- Find a safe place
- Contact 911 if you need emergency medical assistance
Our mission is to provide services to those vulnerable populations. Victims of violence are provided specially trained staff to meet those needs, consistent with our core values. If you, or someone you know, has been sexually assaulted, Franciscan Health is here to help.
What you need to know
- There is no cost for services related to sexual assault / rape.
- Regardless if you have showered or changed clothes, there is a five day window for adults / adolescents (14yr of age and older) for evidence to be collected.
- NOTE: Pediatrics (13yr and younger) there is a three day window for evidence collection.
- Bring clothing worn at the time of the assault.
- Medical staff will assist in notifying law enforcement.
- An advocate is offered to all victims and their support persons.
- Safety planning and post assault resources are provided.
Our Locations
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