Sexual assault includes any type of sexual activity to which an individual does not agree. Because of the effects of some drugs, commonly called date rape drugs, victims may be physically helpless, unable to refuse, or even unable to remember what happened.
Jessica, a 16-year-old high school sophomore, expresses concern to the school nurse practitioner that she knows someone who might have had sex “without knowing it.”
How can the nurse practitioner answer these common questions?
Reflective Questions
- What are date rape drugs and how can a person be unaware that such a drug has been ingested?
- What can you do to protect yourself?
- What do you do if you think you have been sexually assaulted?
- What can you do when someone you care about has been sexually assaulted?
- What role does a nurse practitioner play in the care of sexually assaulted patients, particularly in the adolescent age group
Full Answer Section
Here are some tips on how to help:
- Believe them. The first and most important thing you can do is to believe the victim. Let them know that you believe them and that they are not alone. This can be a difficult thing to do, especially if the assault was violent or the victim is someone you know well. However, it is essential that the victim feels supported and believed.
- Listen to them. Let the victim talk about what happened in their own time and in their own way. Don't interrupt or try to offer advice unless they ask for it. Just listen and be there for them.
- Reassure them that it is not their fault. It is important to remind the victim that they are not to blame for what happened. The assault was not their fault, and they did nothing to deserve it.
- Offer practical support. This could include things like helping them to get to the hospital or the police station, or helping them to find a therapist or counselor. You could also offer to stay with them or to help them with their day-to-day activities.
- Be patient. It is important to be patient with the victim. They may need time to process what happened and to come to terms with it. They may also experience a range of emotions, such as anger, sadness, fear, and guilt. Be patient and understanding, and let them know that you are there for them.
- Encourage them to get help. If the victim is interested in getting help, there are many resources available to them. You can help them to find a therapist or counselor, or you can refer them to a support group.
- Take care of yourself. It is important to take care of yourself as well. Supporting a victim of sexual assault can be emotionally draining. Make sure to take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress.
If you are not sure what to do, you can always reach out to a crisis hotline or a sexual assault support center. They can provide you with more information and support.
Here are some resources that can help:
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): https://www.rainn.org
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline (Spanish): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Childhelp USA: 1-800-422-4453
- The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) website: https://www.rainn.org
Remember, you are not alone. There are people who can help you and the victim. Please reach out for help if you need it.