Rights to Victims of Interpersonal Violence/Domestic Abuse
According to Kansas Statutes, interpersonal/domestic violence is defined as an act of violence or threat of violence against a family or household member or a person who is or was involved in a dating relationship. Interpersonal/domestic violence also includes any crime or municipal ordinance violation committed against a person or property when the act is directed at a family or household member or a person currently or formerly in a dating relationship.
If you are or have been a victim of Interpersonal violence/Domestic Abuse, there is help available for you.
ESCAPE
What to Expect
- Compassionate, supportive medical care
- Your privacy to be maintained
- Have everything explained to you
- A complete history will be taken
- Seek informed consent
- Conduct a head-to-toe examination
- Collect evidence as indicated
- Perform lab work, if needed
- Perform imaging studies, if needed
- Provide follow-up and referrals
- Provide community resources
Preserving DNA Evidence
Evidence preservation following interpersonal violence/domestic abuse 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. Bring any other items related to the incident with you to the hospital or give them to law enforcement.