Retrospective Study on Pain Reports and Treatments at Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations: Clinical Practice Implications.

BACKGROUND

Sexual assault (SA) nurse examiners conduct SA medical forensic examinations (SAMFEs), addressing pain assessment, documentation, and treatment. Limited research exists on patients' pain and related nursing interventions during SAMFEs.

AIM: To evaluate patients' reported pain levels, locations, treatments, and implications for forensic nursing practice.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review (2017-2022) of 5,052 SAMFEs from five Mountain West sites included patients aged 14+, with unrestricted SA kit collection. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses identified predictors of pain reports and treatments.

RESULTS

Pain was reported by 63.1% of patients (mean score: 6/10). Common pain locations were anogenital (41%), abdomen/pelvis (28%), and head (26%). Age, gender, race, injuries, and assailant actions predicted pain reports. Despite documented pain (>4/10), 55.4% received no treatment. Predictors of treatment included age, injury severity, and SAMFE site.

DISCUSSION: SA nurse examiners should conduct thorough pain assessment, documentation, treatment, and reevaluation to improve patient outcomes.