How do we document?
- Non objectively.
- For example: “Bruising on the neck” instead of “strangulation marks,” etc.
Who do we call:
- Henry Ford Police (who will call Detroit Police Department)
- Case management (for APS filings and social work assessments)
- Avalon
What is Avalon? (http://avalonhealing.org)
- A center for support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
- They provide services from the initial exam (via a sexual assault nurse examiner) to a liaison and patient advocate that will help get housing and other support while they are recovering.
- They may say that they cannot examine an unconscious patient- this is case by case. Consider calling back when patient is awake.
- Exams can be done up to 120 hours after incident
- If you are concerned about sexual assault, consider prophylaxis and discuss with staff.