Medical Care

Receiving medical attention immediately after an assault gives survivors the most options for protecting their health and gathering information if the survivor decides to pursue legal charges. For accompaniment and advocacy call Safeline at (336) 278-3333.

IMPORTANT: To collect the best evidence the survivor should not shower, change clothes or use the bathroom before receiving the sexual assault forensic exam. If needed, put clothing that was worn during the assault in a paper bag to protect evidence collection. The confidential advocate can help organize getting clothing and toiletries to survivors at the emergency room.

Victims and survivors can choose to have a Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence exam (SAFE exam). Medical care includes:

• STI-prevention medication and STI testing
• Pregnancy prevention and testing (if applicable)
• Attention to any related injuries
• Combing & brushing hair, under finger nails, and pubic area
• Photos of injuries related to assault
• Pelvic exam (if applicable)
• Swabs of areas with possible DNA
• Collection of clothes that were worn during the assault

Many survivors choose not to report or seek medical attention right away. Survivors still have the option to seek medical attention. The type and extent of medical attention will depend on the amount of time since the assault and any related concerns that the survivor has. For accompaniment and advocacy call Safeline at (336) 278-3333 (24/7) or contact the Assistant Director for Violence Response at 336-278-5009. Possible medical attention can include but is not limited to:

• STI testing and treatment
• Attention to any related injuries
• Pelvic exam (if applicable)
• Pregnancy testing (if applicable)

Survivors and victims of violence that was not sexual in nature can get medical care. Medical care will be dependent on the injuries and concerns of the individual seeking medical attention. Receiving medical attention immediately after the violence occurs gives survivors the most options for protecting their health and gathering information if the survivor decides to pursue legal charges. Survivors are highly encouraged to seek medical attention after head or neck injuries as these have the highest potential for risks and complications. The Assistant Director for Violence Response, or another confidential violence responder can accompany you to the hospital at any time. For accompaniment and advocacy call Safeline at (336) 278-3333.

Medical attention for non-sexual violence can include but is not limited to:

• A physical
• Treatment of any related injuries
• Documentation of injuries
• X-rays, labs, etc. related to possible injuries