Sexual Assault: Acute Care and Beyond

Abstract

Sexual assault, which encompasses any nonconsensual sexual contact, is, unfortunately, common. It results in considerable costs to society, including intangible costs such as loss of quality of life among victims. This review covers the approach to the patient and definitive treatment, disposition, and outcomes for adult and adolescent victims of sexual assault. Figures show female anatomy and common areas for genital injury after rape, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention algorithm for evaluation of possible nonoccupational HIV exposures and nonoccupational post-exposure prophylaxis, a questionnaire for determining additional key aspects of the history of the assault to be completed and explored in detail by the sexual assault examiner, and the components and steps of the Massachusetts Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit. Tables list characteristics that define rape, key aspects of the history, recommended treatment to prevent sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy, calculated risks of acquiring HIV from an isolated sexual contact with a known HIV-positive person, and trauma-informed care. This review contains 5 highly rendered figures, 5 tables, 95 references, and a list of helpful Web sites.