Abstract
This article describes a systematic approach used by a statewide pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner program to ensure the quality of forensic medical examinations it provides in child sexual abuse investigations. Seven strategies for enhancing quality are described: (a) hiring experienced professionals, (b) effective training, (c) comprehensive protocols, (d) ample support for pediatric sexual assault nurses, (e) management oversight, (f) a clinical coordinator to provide ongoing training and technical assistance, and (g) a quality assurance process in which expert child abuse pediatricians review each statewide pediatric sexual assault nurse examination. To show the evolution of quality care over time, the program's experience from 2004 to 2010 is reviewed, and quality assurance data are analyzed.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 777-795 |
| Number of pages | 19 |
| Journal | Journal of Child Sexual Abuse |
| Volume | 22 |
| Issue number | 7 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Oct 1 2013 |
Keywords
- child sexual abuse
- forensic medical examination
- quality assurance
- sexual assault nurse examiner
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
- Pathology and Forensic Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry and Mental health