Founded 20 years ago, the Rape Crisis Center at the Partnership for Families, Children and Adults provides compassionate, comprehensive care for victims of sexual assault.
Dr. Clif CleavelandConsider a hypothetical young woman who has been sexually assaulted during a party. She may contact police, go to an emergency room or contact the hotline for victims of rape and domestic violence (423-755-2700), which the Partnership continuously mans. If she chooses the latter course, a detailed phone assessment will determine the next step. If injured, she will be directed to hospital. Otherwise, she will be directed to the Partnership. Family members, a friend or roommate may accompany her.
A skilled case manager or victim advocate will greet her and coordinate her care. After assessing immediate needs, she will be guided through a series of options, including safety planning, her legal rights and contact with law enforcement services. After-care options will be reviewed. These include psychological counseling, guidance and accompaniment through court proceedings and Child or Adult Protective Services as deemed appropriate.
If the assault has occurred within 96 hours, a forensic examination is offered to collect potential evidence to use in prosecution of the case. Many victims pursue this option. A nurse who is specially trained in examination procedures for victims of sexual assault conducts this lengthy, complex evaluation. Injuries are photographed. Multiple swabs for DNA analysis are obtained for submission to the crime lab at Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The district attorney submits the request for analysis.
If a victim of rape requires in-patient care, the Partnership nurse conducts her examination in a hospital. The nurse may provide antibiotics for sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea. If a pregnancy test is negative, the victim is offered Plan B emergency contraception as a precaution against pregnancy as a consequence of the assault.