NCJ Number
206708
Date Published
2004
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Based on research findings pertinent to the United Kingdom, this report concludes that appropriately trained forensic nurses can deliver an improved cost-effective response to victims of rape and sexual assault, in order to counter delays in providing forensic examinations, increase the availability of female forensic examiners, and enhance professional standards for managing such cases.
Abstract
The recommendations presented in this report are derived from data and conclusions of the Crime Reduction Program Violence Against Women Initiative, which was an evidence-based effort to determine which approaches and practices have been effective in supporting victims and investigations of domestic violence, rape, and sexual assault. The current report is based on the specific findings from the evaluation of the Forensic Nurse pilot program at the St. Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester, England. In addition, this report draws on the international literature. The pilot program explored the potential of using forensic nurses in the immediate response to reported rape and sexual assault. This involved training a nurse, who was also a current member of the St. Mary's team, to conduct forensic examinations appropriate for the offenses reported by the victims. The forensic nurses were trained to provide direct services to the victims and collect evidence for the police. The needs expected to be addressed by this program were lengthy waiting times for forensic examinations, difficulty in recruiting and retaining forensic doctors, limited access to female examiners, inconsistency in recording examination findings, and failure to deliver prompt relevant examination evidence to the police/prosecution. Based on the evaluation of the pilot program, this report recommends that nurses be trained to perform medical services for rape and sexual assault victims as well as evidence collection in the forensic examination of victims. The report advises that the development of a cadre of forensic nurses at the local level will involve the recruitment of nurses; training, including preparation for testifying in court; supervision and mentoring; a well-equipped examination room; and the development of protocols with the police, Crown Prosecution Service, and local forensic doctors. The protocols should specify the types of cases to be handled by forensic nurses, the production of statements, and how evidence is to be presented in court. 15 references