Rape

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Signs and tests

A history will be obtained in a supportive and non-judgmental way. This will include the details of the attack: the date and time of the rape, setting where it occurred and what the victim has done since the attack occurred (for example, showered and changed clothes as opposed to coming directly to the hospital). If possible, this should be done with both medical and investigating police present, to eliminate the need to have the victim repeatedly recall the incident.

Additional medical history information that should be obtained includes: any possibility of pregnancy prior to the attack; the date of the last menstrual period; a pertinent gynecological history, including any prior sexual abuse or assault; and the presence of chronic illness or recent illness or injury, as well as current medications.

A complete physical examination should be done to document any objective signs of trauma. Pictures may be taken to note bruises, scrapes, or cuts. X-rays will be taken if fractures are suspected.

Numerous samples and specimens may be collected for evidence including clothing, pubic hair samples (particularly if foreign materials are noted within it), fingernail scrapings, and vaginal (and mouth or anal, if indicated) samples to examine for evidence of sperm and test for sexually transmitted diseases.