EMS Protocols for Trauma-Informed Sexual Assault Care

This position statement aimed to guide emergency medical services (EMS) in providing effective care for survivors of sexual assault. The researchers sought to create a comprehensive position statement and resource document to assist EMS agencies and clinicians in delivering patient-centered management, focusing on trauma-informed care and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Sexual assault is a significant public health issue in the United States, affecting approximately one in five women and one in 26 men. Survivors often require specialized medical, forensic, and psychological care. This research is crucial as EMS clinicians frequently encounter these survivors, and the guidance can improve their ability to provide compassionate and appropriate care. By addressing these needs, the position statement aims to enhance outcomes for survivors and improve the collaboration between EMS and other healthcare and forensic services.

The researchers conducted a structured rapid review of existing literature related to EMS care for sexual assault survivors. They searched databases for relevant articles and screened them for inclusion based on their relevance to the EMS setting. Seven articles were selected to inform the position statement, supplemented by professional guidelines and the authors' expertise.

The position statement emphasized the importance of trauma-informed care, which focuses on the emotional and psychological safety of survivors. It highlighted the need for EMS clinicians to assess for physical injuries, collaborate with Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) organizations, and transport survivors to appropriate facilities. The document also stressed the importance of accurate documentation and evidence preservation. It identified high-risk populations, such as children, the elderly, and transgender individuals, who require special considerations.

The position statement provides a framework for EMS agencies to improve the care of sexual assault survivors. By adopting the recommendations, EMS can offer more effective and empathetic care, ultimately benefiting the survivors' recovery and legal processes. The position statement also underscores the need for tailored protocols and training to ensure EMS clinicians are equipped to handle these sensitive cases.

The authors recommend further research to explore barriers to prehospital care for sexual assault survivors, focusing on medicolegal outcomes and patient experiences. They also suggest developing education and protocols in collaboration with local SAFE programs to implement the recommendations effectively.

This research was supported by Yale University.