Citation

Lewis CM, DiNitto D, Nelson TS, Just MM, Campbell-Ruggaard J. J. Am. Acad. Nurse Pract. 2003; 15(1): 34-39.

Affiliation

Center for Social Work Research, University of Texas at Austin, School of Social Work, USA. carolmarie@mail.utexas.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12613411

Abstract

PURPOSE: To evaluate the use and effectiveness of a protocol developed for emergency nurses and other medical personnel to use with survivors of sexual assault. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Protocol for the Treatment of Adult Sexual Assault Survivors was developed by a multi-disciplinary team in 1991-92 as a written guide to provide comprehensive, standardized, non-judgmental, and equitable treatment for survivors. In 1993, this 118-page manual was sent to all Ohio hospitals. In 1994, a follow-up video and training guide were also delivered. In 1997, Victims Rights Advocacy, a non-profit agency in Ohio, and the Center for Social Work Research at The University of Texas at Austin collaboratively conducted an evaluation of the utilization and effectiveness of this protocol at Ohio hospitals. DATA SOURCES: Emergency departments at Ohio hospitals were asked to complete a mailed survey regarding their policies and procedures for treating sexual assault patients. Telephone calls were made to the hospitals that did not return a survey, and site visits were conducted at 20 hospitals in diverse areas of Ohio. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, respondents concurred that hospitals can benefit from using a standardized protocol, such as the ODH Protocol, for treating victims of sexual assault. Survey participants also indicated that training is needed on several topics, especially testifying in court, cultural awareness, and the needs of special populations, such as male, gay, lesbian, and bisexual survivors. In addition, findings indicate that survivors need more follow-up services, and written information about these services should be provided to them. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Nurse practitioners can improve the treatment of sexual assault survivors in their communities through a variety of actions, such as gathering information about available protocols and training opportunities for personnel, and becoming familiar with resources that can help victims.

Language: en