Examination of a Victim of Rape
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
Introduction
Rape is legal definition and medical officers should not give an opinion that rape has or has not taken place based on the physical signs.
The objectives of examination of a victim of rape are:
- To see whether the findings corroborate the history given.
- To look for evidence of penetration or sexual intercourse (presence of genital injuries or semen in the vagina)
- To look for evidence of struggle (presence of general injuries)
- To collect, preserve and dispatch specimens for laboratory examination.
These specimens include:
a. Vaginal swabs and smears
b. Pubic hair, scalp hair or any loose hair on the body
c. Finger nail clippings
d. Blood for grouping