IMMEDIATE INSTRUCTIONS IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE HAVE BEEN ASSAULTED AND ARE IN DANGER/INJURED
- Get to a safe place and call 911.
- Do not shower, bathe, or brush your teeth.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke.
- Do not use the toilet, but if you must, do not wipe with toilet paper.
- Do not change your clothing.
IMMEDIATE INSTRUCTIONS IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE HAVE BEEN ASSAULTED AND ARE SAFE AND NOT INJURED
- Contact us at 260-423-2222.
- A forensic nurse is available to make a difference 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- The nurse will explain all options that are available to you, including a medical-forensic examination at no cost to you.
- Do not shower, bathe, or brush your teeth.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke.
- Do not use the toilet, but if you must, do not wipe with toilet paper.
- Do not change your clothing.
- If you feel comfortable reaching out to a loved one, he/she can offer you support during this time. Loved ones are welcome to come to the SATC, and wait in our lobby while you complete your examination.
We cannot begin to imagine what is going through your mind during this time of crisis. Please know that when you speak, we listen. We will offer choices for reporting options, healthcare needs, and various resources. Let us be your first step to healing. Break the silence, and know that you are not alone.
Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect
Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline 1-800-800-5556
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call Indiana’s Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline today. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You do not have to be afraid anyone will find out who made the report because you can report abuse and neglect anonymously.
Under Indiana law any individual who has a reason to believe a child is a victim of abuse or neglect has the duty to make a report; therefore, each citizen of Indiana is considered a “mandated reporter.” While reporting child abuse is everyone’s responsibility, Indiana law requires some in certain occupations to do so. These professional reporters are staff members in a medical or other public or private institution, school, facility, or agency. These reporters are legally obligated by their profession to report alleged child abuse or neglect.
Everyone has an important role and responsibility to prevent child abuse and neglect. Children need everyone to stand up for their safety when they may be in harm’s way or when families in crisis or turmoil need support from those close to them. By contacting the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline if you suspect a child is a victim of abuse or neglect, you can play your part in protecting a child and/or making it possible for a family in crisis to get the help and support they need.
For more information on the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline please click here.
MEDICAL FORENSIC EXAMINATION ON PEDIATRIC PATIENTS (AGES 13 AND YOUNGER)
Here is some information regarding our medical forensic examination on pediatric patients. The forensic nurse examiners that work at the SATC have received extensive training to specialize in the care of the pediatric population.
We hope that we can elevate any fears that you may have regarding your child’s examination. Please do not hesitate to call with any questions you may have at 260-423-2222.
- The forensic nurse examiner will explain the whole examination and collect consent prior to taking your child back for the exam.
- There will be no shots or anything to cause pain to your child.
- Your child has the right to decline any portion of the examination.
- The forensic nurse examiner will never force an examination and will explain each step as she goes.
- If your child is a female and has not started her menstrual cycle, we do not use a speculum like at an adult female exam.
- We will collect a patient history if the child is verbal
- We will do a head to toe examination and look for any injuries, as well as collect height, weight, etc.
- If you and your child have agreed, photographs may be taken.
- If within the timeframe, evidence will be collected.
- Any questions will be answered, and referrals for any follow up medical treatment will be made.
- Referrals for other services will be arranged, including counseling options.
- Your child will be able to put his/her handprint on the wall. This shows children that they are not alone.
- Your child will be sent home with a blanket and/or stuffed animal/toy to promote this as a happy and healing portion of his/her journey.
Counseling Recommendations
The effects of childhood sexual abuse are different for every child, but can include problems with behavior, interpersonal skills and psychological issues. Research shows that there are positive outcomes associated with early treatment following a disclosure of sexual abuse (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 2004).
Sexual abuse can lower self-esteem, increase risk of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-mutilation and risk of suicide. With early treatment and the support of parents/caregivers these risks are lowered. It is important to listen to your child/loved one, and continues to seek out professional counseling services. Counseling may only be necessary for a brief amount of time, but the sooner an appointment is made, the better. It may take going to more than one counselor for your child/loved one to find one he/she will open up to. Keep in mind that it is important to ask your child/loved one if he/she has a preference in seeing a male or female counselor. Remember to stay patient with your child/loved one, and believe that you as a parent are doing a great job just in your belief and support of your child. For information on counselors and support groups in your area, please visit the United Way 211 Website by clicking here. You can also visit the resources section of our website by clicking here. We recommend that you contact your insurance provider to find counselors in your network.