April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on an issue that affects far too many people across the United States each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in three women and one in four men in the United States has experienced sexual violence in his or her lifetime. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting survivors and working toward preventing sexual violence in our communities.
OFFERING INVALUABLE BENEFITS
Within Memorial’s emergency services department, numerous nurses are equipped with specialized training to address the needs of sexual assault survivors. Memorial has been at the forefront of sexual assault nurse examiner advanced training since 1999, serving as the state’s pilot program and continuously encouraging its emergency nurses to pursue this vital training.
The presence of sexual assault nurse examiners in the emergency department offers invaluable benefits. Through their extensive training, which includes a comprehensive 40-hour course covering everything from kit demonstrations to mock court cases, these nurses play a crucial role in accurately documenting medical evidence needed for legal proceedings. This ensures that the justice system receives precise information crucial for addressing sexual assault cases.
PROVIDING CRUCIAL SUPPORT
The impact of sexual assault nurse examiners extends beyond medical documentation. These nurses provide support to survivors, reassuring them that they are not alone in their experiences. In their most vulnerable moments, patients can speak with trained healthcare professionals who can help them navigate the shame and guilt often associated with sexual assault while reinforcing their fundamental right to safety and bodily autonomy. Sexual assault nurse examiners are committed to offering both medical care and emotional support to survivors, recognizing the profound impact of such traumatic experiences.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as a poignant reminder of the prevalence of sexual violence and the ongoing need for support and advocacy. Through the dedication of medical professionals and the continued commitment of medical institutions like Memorial, strides can be made toward creating a safer, more supportive environment for all individuals affected by sexual assault.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT
- National Sexual Assault Hotline — available 24 hours 1-800-656-4673
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center: www.nsvrc.org
- Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network: www.rainn.org/resources
- Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence: www.gccfn.org; 24/7 crisis line: (800) 800-1396
Memorial offers both primary care services and virtual visits. Learn more by visiting wearememorial.com or by calling (228) 867-5000.
