Hearing the words sexual assault can conjure up a myriad of feelings and responses. Fear, anxiety, anger, denial and so much more. What are the next steps if you, your friend or a loved one has been the victim of a sexual assault?
The most important step is to seek care as quickly as possible. The best forensic evidence is captured within 72 hours, especially if the woman (or man) does not shower, bathe, brush her/his teeth, eat, drink, or change clothes. Coming to the emergency department does not require the person to report the crime to law enforcement. Our caregivers will explain reporting options and the person can choose to remain anonymous. The victim may choose to have the medical forensic evidence collected and either report the crime to law enforcement and have the evidence sent to the state crime lab for analysis or not report to law enforcement but have the evidence stored up to two years until he/she decides what to do.
Seeking care after an assault can be scary and overwhelming. Montrose Regional Health (MRH) understands this apprehension and is fortunate to have gentle and caring Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) who take over the care of these patients. These registered nurses have extensive training assuring that victims are treated with compassion, respect, and dignity. Care is given in a dedicated room, away from the chaos of the emergency department, which allows the victims a safe space to wait and be examined. This room has gentle lighting, an aroma diffuser and calming music to help with relaxation. Although this is a long and difficult process, it is proven that having the sexual assault exam done by a trained nurse is the first step towards healing for a victim. The number one priority for our SANE program is to assure the mental health and physical wellbeing of our patients are being addressed.
The SANE nurses at Montrose Regional Health coordinate with all law enforcement, emergency medical services, and courts throughout the west region. We also work collaboratively with the Dolphin House, who provides exams for children. This collaborative relationship ensures conversations occur regularly which promotes success and avoids duplication for the victims.
Unfortunately, the need for SANE services continues to increase. During the first six months of 2022, MRH conducted 29 SANE exams. Caregivers believe that more people in our area are aware of the SANE program and therefore victims hear and believe they will be treated quickly, safely, anonymously and with the upmost respect. Montrose is incredibly fortunate to have this quality program for the people in our communities.
According to the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault, 1 in 4 women will experience some sort of sexual violence in their life. Colorado’s sexual violence rate is 23.8 percent, compared to the national average of 18.3. Survivors go through a very difficult experience because of the trauma and crisis. The compassionate care received at Montrose Regional Health by our SANE nurses can help victims begin their journey to recovery.
Leann Tobin, Chief Marketing & Philanthropy Officer, Montrose Regional Health