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Sexual assault is an ESI level 2
If available, allow the patient to wait for a room in a private area
Avoid having patients use the restroom, eat/drink, or wipe their genitalia prior to the exam if possible
Adults: If there is a local sexual assault program that performs exams established (Community based sexual assault center/rape crisis center), adults can be referred to that facility, but the hospital personnel must make sure the facility is open and able to take the patient, help the patient call and make their appointment and ensure transportation.
**Be sure to rule out other medical emergencies prior to making arrangements**
It is best practice to have a nurse or provider who is specially trained in sexual assault assessment perform sexual assault exams and/or have a trained/certified professional provide expert consultation for the exam via telemedicine (teleSANE), if available.
All patients have a right to have a sexual assault advocate. Ensure that a sexual assault advocate has been offered and is available to the patient if advocacy services are available in your area.
No patient should be treated any differently based on their national origin, race, color, religion, disability, sex, and familial status
No patient should be treated any differently based on their national origin, race, color, religion, disability, sex, and familial status
Ask the patient if they require any accommodations
If translation services are required, ensure that professional translation services are utilized rather than family members or friends
Medical stabilization of the patient always takes priority over evidence collection
Every part of the exam is optional to the patient and they can decline portions of the exam while still participating in others.
Deaf or Hard of Hearing Individuals:
Deaf or Hard of Hearing Individuals:
Pursuant to Arkansas Act 1314 of 2013 an individual interpreting for a person who is deaf or hard of hearing in the state of Arkansas must be not only certified but licensed.
Keep in mind that the more competently trained the interpreter, the more effective the communication. If communication is effective, the more likely it is that the person will get the information they need to help heal and that the case will proceed through the legal system.
Keep in mind that the more competently trained the interpreter, the more effective the communication. If communication is effective, the more likely it is that the person will get the information they need to help heal and that the case will proceed through the legal system.
NOTE: Many cases have proceeded through the legal system only to be dismissed because of issues of interpretation due to concerns of who interpreted, what was communicated, and competency.
NOTE: Many cases have proceeded through the legal system only to be dismissed because of issues of interpretation due to concerns of who interpreted, what was communicated, and competency.
How Do I Know?
How Do I Know?
The best way to know if a person needs an interpreter is to ask the Deaf person if one is needed.
Simply Speak (if they read lips)
Write a Note
Finger Spell
Sign Directly to the Person
The Deaf person also may have a preference for who will interpret for them, especially in sensitive situations
If someone else requests the interpreter on behalf of the Deaf person, always ask the Deaf person to confirm the need.
Interpreter Referral Agencies
Interpreter Referral Agencies
In order to avoid delays, have contact information for qualified and licensed service providers ready and available to appointment schedulers.
Options for Securing a Licensed Sign Language Interpreter
Contact an Agency. In Arkansas, there are three interpreter referral agencies that coordinate access services:
Communication Plus: 501-224-2521
Communicating Hands: 501-374-5293
Sign Language Interpreter Network of Northwest Arkansas: 479-268-2417 or scheduling@slinofnwa.com
Video Remote Interpreting. Some organizations use video remote interpreting. This is not best practice for many people who are deaf. Usually, the quality of transmission sometimes fails to provide adequate interpretation in these sensitive situations.
Tips and Considerations When Using An Interpreter
Tips and Considerations When Using An Interpreter
The interpreter will position themselves within the sightline of the Deaf person. They will often sit or stand as close to the hearing speaker as possible so the Deaf person can pick up on facial expressions and body language from the person speaking. Where the interpreter stands or sits depends on the situation and the Deaf person can assist in letting you know how best to do this.
Relax and speak naturally. The interpreter will let you know if they need you to slow down or clarify anything.
Interpreters follow a code of ethics that requires confidentiality and impartiality. If you want to know how things are going, speak to the Deaf person and the interpreter will interpret your inquiry.
Everything you or others say will be interpreted even if you are NOT speaking to the person, so avoid private conversations.
Maintain eye contact. Keep your eye gaze on and speak directly to the Deaf person NOT to the interpreter.
Hard of Hearing Individuals
Hard of Hearing Individuals
Keep noises in the background to a minimum.
Be aware of light sources.
Have an assistive listening device available if needed
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