Expert witnesses

If your case goes to court, your nurse examiner will testify as an expert witness.
 

 

Working with other agencies

HSHS St. Vincent Hospital's Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program maintains an ongoing working relationship with other organizations that can help you. We work closely with human services agencies, law enforcement agencies, the Sexual Assault Center and the district attorney's office. The sexual assault nurse examiners also will make sure a sexual assault advocate is available to help you.

What is sexual assault?

 

Sexual assault is any sexual contact that is forced or is against a person's wishes. It includes rape, incest, sexual harassment, child sexual assault, marital rape, and exposure. Sexual assault is a crime of violence. The attacker's weapons are power and control.

Sexual assault can happen to anyone, of any age or gender.
 

  • One in three women is assaulted before the age of 18

  • One in four women report they were sexually assaulted during their college years

  • One in six men report they are sexually assaulted before the age of 18

  • Eighty percent of survivors are assaulted by someone they know or recognize. Sexual assault often happens in a trusting relationship

The stress a person feels after a sexual assault may be short-term, long-term or both. In any case, HSHS St. Vincent Hospital's Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners are trained to help.

What to do if you are sexually assaulted

 
  • Survive: Fight back only if you think you have a good chance to escape. Don't fight if it could bring you further harm. Follow your instincts and remember: The important thing is to survive.

  • Safe place: As soon as possible, find a safe place and go there.

  • Get help: Find a person who can help you. If you need support and assistance, call the Sexual Assault Center at 920-436-8899.

  • Consider having a medical examination: A medical exam is important for your health and the sexual assault nurse examiners at HSHS St. Vincent Hospital's Regional Emergency Center are specially trained to collect medical and legal evidence.