Rights to Victims of Child Abuse/Neglect
According to Kansas Statutes, it is a crime to inflict mental, physical, or emotional injury that harms a child; acts or omissions by a parent or person responsible for care of a child that results in harm or the likelihood of harm.
If you or someone you know is or has been a victim of Child Abuse/Neglect, there is help available.
ESCAPE
What to Expect
- Compassionate, supportive medical care
- Privacy to be maintained
- Have everything explained
- A complete history will be taken
- Seek informed consent
- Conduct a head-to-toe examination
- Conduct a detailed genital examination as indicated
- Collect evidence as indicated
- Perform lab work, if needed
- Perform imaging studies, if needed
- Discuss and/or provide medication options
- Provide follow-up and referrals
- Provide community resources
Preserving DNA Evidence
Evidence preservation following abuse/neglect is important to building a case and assisting forensic nurses and law enforcement. Patients should refrain from showering or bathing until they come to the hospital to be examined.
- Do NOT drink any liquids
- Do NOT brush your teeth
- Do NOT use mouthwash
- Do NOT take a shower
- Do NOT take a bath
- Do NOT douche (flush the vagina)
- Do NOT change your clothes
- Do NOT urinate (if at all possible)
- Do NOT have a bowel movement
Bring any other items related to the abuse/neglect with you to the hospital or give them to law enforcement.