Depending on the situation, a child’s experience may include a medical exam with a nurse practitioner at DCAC. The medical exam ensures that your child receives the appropriate and specialized medical care for any health concerns. Our staff will talk with you and your child before the exam and make every effort to ensure your child’s comfort and answer any questions you may have.
FORENSIC MEDICAL FAQs
Click on a question below for the answer.
If you have additional questions, please contact us.
What is the purpose of a forensic medical exam?
The purpose of the exam is:
- To collect any physical evidence that may be helpful in criminal and child protection services investigations
- To diagnose and treat injuries or sexually transmitted infections
- To assess for pregnancy
- To identify and document any forensically significant findings
- To identify any other medical conditions or psychiatric concerns
- To provide reassurance to the child and family that his/her body is okay
What happens during the medical exam?
The exam is very similar to an ordinary pediatric appointment. The doctor will measure height and weight, check vital signs, listen to the heart and lungs, look in the ears, mouth, and eyes. A blood draw or urine sample is sometimes necessary. Your child will be encouraged to ask any questions they might have.
Who completes the exam?
Your child will see a physician, nurse practitioner, or nurse. Our medical team has been trained to specialize in providing care to children who have experienced maltreatment.
Why does my child need a medical exam?
The medical exam is provided in order to examine the child for possible injuries or infections and to provide a report for investigators. The exam will also provide reassurance to you and your child that they are healthy and will help them to receive follow-up care.
Can I be in the room with my child during their medical exam?
To ensure that your child feels comfortable to be discuss any concern they may have, caregivers are not permitted to observe the exam. You will be allowed to remain in the building. In some situations, such as blood draws, our medical team may invite you to come to the exam room to provide support to your child if your child requests your presence.
Who has access to my child’s medical records?
Your child’s information is protected by HIPPA. Parents or legal guardians may request a copy of the records. Per state law, we must provide a copy to investigators who are involved with the case.
Will the exam hurt?
While some children report mild discomfort if they need to have a blood draw, the exam should not result in any physical discomfort. The doctor or nurse practitioner will explain what they are doing each step of the way. Children are encouraged to tell the provider if they are uncomfortable physically or emotionally. As with our forensic interviews, if your child does not wish to participate in part or all of the medical exam, they will not be forced to. A trained member of our staff will also be present during the exam to provide support, distraction, and encouragement to your child as needed.
What should I tell my child about the medical exam?
Be honest. Tell your child that they will have a physical exam. Explain to your child that the doctor will be doing a head-to-toe checkup. Be sure to provide your child with enough notice so that they don’t feel surprised by it. We believe telling them the day before provides sufficient notice. Many children ask if they will be getting a shot or vaccination at their appointment. It is OK for you to let them know they will not be getting any shots at their appointment.
The abuse happened a long time ago. Does my child still need an exam?
Yes. In cases where there is no visible injury, your child might still need the added comfort of knowing that they are healthy and be given the opportunity to have their questions answered by a professional.
My child already had a medical exam. Do they need another?
Yes, if the allegations suggest that this is necessary. For most STI’s, we will be able to utilize a urine sample. If an STI is detected, the medical provider will prescribe antibiotics and make sure that you are aware of any follow-up needed.
If there is no evidence, does that mean nothing happened? Will it hurt the investigation?
No. Children heal quickly and some forms of abuse don’t leave marks or physical scars. Many exams don’t yield evidence of injury. Our medical staff will provide law enforcement and DSS with a report stating findings. When necessary, the medical provider can provide court testimony regarding your child’s exam.
