What is the Bon Secours Violence Response Team?
For 30 years, the Bon Secours Violence Response Team (formerly known as the forensic nursing program) has expertly served victims of violence. Our violence response team is available 24/7 at all of our Richmond hospitals and freestanding emergency departments and is made up of both forensic nurses and victim advocates who respond in tandem to serve all victims of violence. This team specializes in serving victims of all ages who have experienced domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, physical assault, strangulation, adult and pediatric abuse/neglect, substance-exposed infants, human trafficking and workplace violence. The Violence Response Team offers comprehensive care to victims including specialized medical attention, evidence collection, emotional support, advocacy support, hospital accompaniment, follow-up phone calls and referrals for community resources.
What is the role of a forensic nurse?
A forensic nurse is a registered nurse with specialized training in collection of evidence, injury identification, detailed documentation, expert witness testimony in court, and consultation with investigative agencies. Our forensic nurses take a gentle, holistic, and respectful approach to patients. Forensic exams are performed in a designated unit that is separate from our emergency departments to maintain the privacy and dignity of our patients. Our forensic nurses may:
- Perform an evaluation of the victim and gathers any pertinent information about the assault, including taking a detailed patient history.
- Complete a Physical Evidence Recovery Kit (PERK), which is vital in gathering any potential evidence from a sexual assault to hold the offender accountable. (Patients can have a PERK completed without involving law enforcement if they wish.)
- Test for sexually transmitted diseases, administer prophylactic treatment and/or provide pregnancy testing.
- Ensure that any findings are properly photographed, measured and documented.
- Complete an examination and captures imaging of injuries caused by strangulation that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Testify in court as an expert opinion during the judicial process. This presence in court is critical in holding perpetrators accountable and presents an opportunity for forensic nurses to serve patients long after discharge.
What is the role of a victim services advocate?
A victim service advocate provides emotional support, hospital accompaniment, and community resources to victims of violence. Through trauma-informed care, the victim service advocates help survivors of violence access the resources they need within their community to feel supported empowered. Victim services are tailored to meet the needs of survivors of violence. Services offered may include:
- Immediate emotional support for the patient and their family
- Beside hospital accompaniment
- Education on about traumatic effects of violence.
- Safety planning
- Coordination with medical staff and follow-up support for physical exams
- Resources and referrals for basic needs, counseling, court accompaniment, shelter placement, legal assistance etc.
Am I required to report sexual assault or domestic violence to police?
No. The Violence Response Team provides medical forensic examinations and specialized nursing care to you with or without reporting to police. If you would like to report to police, the Violence Response Team can assist you.
In cases of sexual assault, a medical forensic exam with evidence collection can be collected without making a police report. This is known as a BLIND, or anonymous, kit. The kit will not identify you as a patient. You will have access to your kit number if you wish to file a police report at a later time.
*Mandated Reporting
If you are a minor, the forensic nurse may be required to report to social services.
Injuries caused by certain types of weapons may also require healthcare providers to report to police.
How long is the medical forensic exam?
Exams may take a few hours, but the actual time will vary based on several different factors such as your medical needs and the specifics of the assault.
Can I have someone with me during the medical forensic exam?
Yes. You are welcome to have a family member or friend with you. Additionally, a victim services advocate can be present to support you as well.
What do I need to bring?
Any clothes worn during or shortly after the event. Please keep in a paper bag.