Time Frames

Adult and adolescent 

• • Sexual assault evidence collection should occur within 120 hours of the assault

    • If evidence collection occurs between 96 and 120 hours, ensure you document on the Crime Victims Reparations Provider Form that this is in line with national best practice guidelines

    • In some cases, evidence may still be collected beyond 120 hours if the patient was held hostage and has not bathed or showered. 

Pediatric

• Prepubertal sexual assault evidence collection should occur up to 72 hours after the assault

Be sure to ask about clothing and linens involved in the assault or worn directly afterward, if they have not yet been laundered, instruct the caregiver to place them in a PAPER bag and assist in making sure law enforcement is aware of the items.