Victims of sexual assault or relationship violence can now go to Port Hardy Hospital for specialized assistance.
Aboriginal Liaison Nurse Rebecca Olesen also serves as the team leader for the Forensic Nurse Examiners (FNE).
She says they have been trained to provide medical care and collect forensic evidence from victims aged 13 and over within seven days of the assault.
“The most important thing that Forensic Nurse Examiners provide is non-judgmental and culturally safe care. We’re neutral, and we’re there to assist people in making informed decisions about their health and forensic care that is best for them.”
She adds that FNEs provide a number of options for patients.
“The first option would be health care to treat physical injuries and medications to prevent sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy. The second option would be the health care as described, with the addition of forensic evidence collection which is immediately provided to police IF the person is choosing to report the incident to police.”
She says the evidence of an assault can be stored for up to one year if the victim is not sure about reporting the assault to the authorities.
Olesen says that in addition to that, Forensic Nurse Examiners can provide referrals for follow-up care and counselling.
