Follow- Up Services: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs ...
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault happens when you are forced into sexual contact against your will. It may be called a variety of names including rape, incest, molestation, sexual violence, marital rape, date rape, or others. Sexual assault can happen to anyone, at anytime, anywhere. It is not your fault.
Sexual Assault is a Crime
Perpetrators of sexual assault can be anyone; an acquaintance, date, relative, stranger, friend, or spouse. Sexual assault is a crime of power, not lust, done to hurt and humiliate another.
Your Options
You have done the first thing to begin your recovery. You have come to a safe place, where people are here to help. If you have any questions at anytime, someone is available to answer them.
Making decisions after a sexual assault is often upsetting and confusing. In addition to making decisions about who to tell, you may be struggling with your medical and legal decisions. You have the right to have someone of your choosing remain with you at all times during the law enforcement questioning and the medical exam. A sexual assault advocate and a social worker will offer to speak with you and the advocate can remain with you throughout your time here in the emergency department.
Medical Treatment
If you choose to have a sexual assault examination and to have evidence collected, a nurse will ask you some questions about the assault, some of which may be difficult. These questions may include:
← When was your last voluntary sexual contact?
← Do you know the person who raped or sexually assaulted you?
← Have you ever had consensual sex with this person before?
← Had you been using drugs or alcohol?
← Are you currently using birth control?
None of these questions are intended to imply that it is your fault. You are not to blame for this assault. These questions help document the circumstances and events of the assault. They also help us provide the best medical care for you.
After the paperwork is completed, a sexual assault nurse examiner or a doctor will begin the evidence collection and medical exam, which can include:
← Asking you to undress. Your clothes may be kept as part of the evidence collection. If you did not bring additional clothing to wear home, you may call a friend or family member to bring clothing, or the hospital can supply you with replacement clothing to wear home.
← Checking for injuries. Depending on your injuries, x-rays or photographs may be taken.
← Because much of the evidence of the assault may be on your body, it is important that a broad range of specimens is collected, including specimens from your fingernails, samples of pubic hair, swabbing the inside of your mouth, vagina for a woman or penis for a man, and anal area. These are routine parts of the examination that occurs for every rape survivor.
← A blood sample may be drawn.
← The opportunity to discuss any concerns with the nurse or physician about pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS.
← The option to take medicine to prevent sexually transmitted infections (specifically for gonorrhea and chlamydia) and to be screened for Emergency Contraception Pills.
Remember you can choose whether or not to have these services. You can change your mind at anytime. If you have any questions at anytime, someone is available to assist you.
Legal Issues
In Ohio, the crime of sexual assault is a felony offense. The hospital staff is required by Ohio law to call and inform law enforcement (police or sheriff) that a felony has taken place, however this can be done without using your name if you so choose. We encourage you to talk with the police/sheriff so that they will have on record the fact that this crime has taken place, however, this decision is yours. Talking with the police/sheriff does not mean that you have to pursue prosecution (going to trial).
If you choose to report this crime to law enforcement, the police officer or detective may ask some of the same questions that the medical staff asked as well as additional questions. They will need the date, time, and location of the assault as well as other details of the crime. Some of these questions may be difficult, however none of them are meant to imply the assault was your fault.
Remember, you have the right to decide if you want to speak with law enforcement. You also have the right to have someone of your choosing remain with you during police/sheriff questioning. If you choose to report the assault, any evidence collected will be turned over to the police/sheriff.
Payment
Neither you nor your health insurance will be billed for any costs associated with this sexual assault evidence collection exam. However, additional medical treatment beyond the sexual assault exam and forensic evidence collection will be billed to you or your health insurance. If your health insurance does not cover this, you may be eligible for a refund through the Victims of Crime Compensation Program (refer to the enclosed application for more details). If you receive a bill for this exam, please call the Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio at 614-566-4770 for further assistance. If you have additional questions regarding payment, please call the Sexual Abuse Forensic Examination (SAFE) Program of the Ohio Attorney General at 1-800-582-2877 or 614-466-5610.
Emergency
Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) 24-Hour Rape Helpline (614) 267-7020
If the Helpline is busy and you need immediate attention, call: (614) 566-5056
For immediate medical attention, go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911
Sexual Assault
Columbus Police Department Sexual Abuse Squad (614) 645-4701
Columbus Urban League (free support and education for African American clients) (614) 257-6300
Mt. Carmel Crime & Trauma Assistance Program (614) 234-5900
(free individual counseling & support groups for survivors of sexual assault & other crimes or traumas)
OSU Counseling and Consultation Services (free counseling services for OSU students) (614) 292-5766
Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN) (connects to nearest rape crisis line) (800)656-4673
Sexual Violence Education and Support (SVES) - Student Wellness Center (614)-292-4527
provides free long-term advocacy for OSU students and prevention education on campus)
Riverside Behavioral Health (24-Hour mental health services) (614) 566-5056
Victim Witness Assistance Program – Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office (614) 462-3555
Domestic Violence
CHOICES (24-Hour hotline, shelter for women and children; TTY # 224-4663) (614) 224-4663
Columbus Police Department (614) 645-4545
Turning Point (shelter for women & children, Marion County; TTY #740-383-1169) (800) 232-6505
Child Sexual Abuse/Assault
Children’s Hospital Child Advocacy Center (614) 722-3279
Franklin County Children’s Services 24-Hour Child Abuse Hotline (614) 299-7000
Huckleberry House (shelter for teens; TTY# 294-8748) (614) 294-5553
Teen Line - Suicide Prevention Services 24-Hour Hotline (614) 294-3300
Affirmations (counseling; accepts private insurance-sliding scale) (614) 445-8277
Financial Assistance
Ohio Victims of Crime Compensation Program (Toll-free at 1(877) 584-2846) (614) 466-5610
Other Assistance
Asian American Community Services (support for Asian American clients) (614) 220-4022
Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (614) 294-7867
(advocacy for gay/lesbian survivors; Toll-free at 1(866) 86-BRAVO)
Capital Care Women’s Center Inc. (pelvic exams, abortion, birth control) (614) 268-2273
Columbus Health Department (anonymous STD/HIV testing; TTY# 645-7041) (614) 645-7772
FirstLink 24-Hour Information & Referral Services (TTY# 341-2272) (614) 221-2255
Ohio AIDS, HIV and STD Hotline (9am-7pm) TTY # 1(800) DEAFTTY (800) 332-2437
Planned Parenthood of Central Ohio (Toll-free at 1(800) 230-PLAN (614) 224-2235
Senior Line - Suicide Prevention Services 24-Hour Hotline (614) 294-3309
Suicide Prevention Services 24-Hour Hotline (614) 221-5445
Women’s Outreach for Women (614) 242-1284
(support services for women, sensitive to needs of Latina & lesbian survivors)
❑ OSU Medical Center Emergency Department 293-8333
Grant Medical Center Emergency Department 566-9270
Riverside Methodist Hospital Emergency Department 566-5321
Doctor’s West Hospital Emergency Department 429-6050
Mount Carmel St. Ann’s Emergency Department 898-4000
Mount Carmel East Emergency Department 234-6030
Mount Carmel West Emergency Department 234-1862
Student Health Center 292-4321
Consider seeking medical attention and/or evidence collection by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner especially if the assault occurred within the last 72 hours. Accompaniment by a trained volunteer advocate who can provide emotional support, crisis-intervention, and referrals is available at the emergency departments listed above. Student Health Services at OSU can provide confidential information and services concerning sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.
❑ OSU Police Department 292-2121
Columbus Police Department Sexual Abuse Squad 645-4701
Consider filing a report with the OSU Police Department if the assault occurred on campus. If the assault occurred off-campus, you may contact the Columbus Police Department Sexual Abuse Squad or the local police with jurisdiction. If you choose to speak with a police officer or detective, this does not mean that you must pursue charges or that the case will go to trial. Please refer to the last page of this packet for the OSU Police Department Survivor’s Rights Guarantee.
❑ OSU Counseling and Consultation Service 292-5766
Faculty/Staff Assistance Program 292-4472
Free, confidential counseling services are available to students, faculty and staff at any time in the recovery process.
❑ Student Judicial Affairs 292-0748
OSU has a disciplinary hearing process for incidents of sexual misconduct involving OSU students. This process can be discussed with the Director of Student Judicial Affairs without filing a complaint.
❑ Sexual Violence Education and Support (SVES) - Student Wellness Center 292-4527
Located within RPAC, the Student Wellness Center provides a number of support services including: advocacy for those who have/are experiencing sexual assault, stalking or relationship violence. Working with SARNCO, SVES can provide support for those working with the criminal justice, judicial affairs processes or any university issue/office, as well as those who use the Student Health Center. The Student Wellness Center also provides anonymous HIV testing free, as well as other sexual health and wellness issues.
❑ OSU Student Advocacy Center 292-1111
This program can assist you with academic, housing, and financial concerns.
❑ The Office of International Education 292-6101
This office assists with incidents involving international students and scholars.
❑ 24-Hour Rape Helpline 267-7020
Provided by the Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio, this hotline can provide anonymous support and information.
❑ Residence Halls
If you live in a residence hall, your hall director, assistant hall director, or residence advisor can assist in identifying additional resources.
Common Reactions
Sexual assault or rape can be one of the most painful and upsetting things that can happen in someone’s life. You should not be surprised if your emotions bounce back and forth between wanting to run away and wanting to harm the person(s) who has hurt you. Here is a list of common feelings and reactions that teen and adult survivors of sexual violence have reported:
← Wondering “why me?”
← Fear
← Anger or rage
← Numbness or emptiness
← Stomach or headache
← Difficulty sleeping
← Disbelief
← Shame
← Betrayal
← Sense of loss
← Loss of control
← Nightmares
← Guilt
← Inability to concentrate
← Withdrawal
← Panic
← Reluctance to go to school/work
You may find yourself constantly thinking about the sexual assault or refusing to think about it at all. All of these feelings and reactions are normal. Give yourself permission to take as long as you need to heal and recover and remember that no matter what the circumstances of your sexual assault, it was not your fault.
Things You Can Do
← Breathe. When we get scared, we stop normal breathing. Try to relax and take deep breaths.
← Honor your experiences. Appreciate yourself and your strength for having survived.
← Be patient with yourself. It takes time to heal feelings and emotions.
← Reassure yourself. These feelings are natural. Many people who suffer from a trauma feel this way.
← Address immediate concerns, particularly medical and legal issues. Identify all your choices and options.
← Find healing helpers. Look for people (therapist, clergy, friends) who can guide, support, and coach your healing.
← Go to a support group for survivors. Survivors are wonderful allies. It is very powerful to share your healing journey with others who understand what you are going through. Contact your local rape crisis center for a support group nearest you.
← Educate yourself about sexual assault. Read books or contact your local rape crisis center to get information about the common myths and misconceptions surrounding sexual assault.
← Be aware of people and places that make you feel unsafe.
← Seek help in creating a safety plan that addresses your needs and concerns. Advocates of the Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) at the Emergency Department or on the 24-Hour Rape Helpline (614-267-7020) can help you to develop a safety plan that feels comfortable to you. Below are some things to consider when safety-planning:
• Brainstorm what options are available to you if confronted by a violent/abusive person in each room of your home, your work place, and even your car. Is there a room with a lock on the door that you could run to? Is there a phone you could take with you?
• What are things in each room of your home or your work place that you could use to buy some time (items you could throw, things you could use to hit the violent/abusive person with) until you could get away?
• Is it possible to put additional or new locks or dead-bolt locks in your home? Ask the advocate at the Emergency Department or on the 24-Hour Rape Helpline (614-267-7020) for information about locks that can be obtained free of charge.
• What options do you have to draw attention to a violent situation? If at home, is there a neighbor you could alert? Can you set up some signal, for example, four knocks on a shared wall means call 9-1-1? Could you have a code word that would mean, “don’t leave,” if you were out with friends and did not want to be left alone?
• Could you consider taking a self-defense class? A good self-defense class should provide verbal and physical defense skills in an affirming and supportive atmosphere.
Support Services
It is important that you have support to help you express and deal with these feelings. Don’t be afraid to talk with someone about your feelings and experiences, particularly with someone trained in issues of sexual assault and rape. Crisis counseling after an assault can make a difference. Your local rape crisis center is a great resource for support and they can also help you with legal and medical questions. With time and understanding, these feelings and experiences will subside. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Follow your inner feelings about the people you trust with your emotions. Do not be afraid to question what they say and how they act towards you. Choose someone who will understand your experience and feelings. This person will allow you to take as much time as you need for your recovery.
The Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) offers a 24-Hour Rape Helpline, which provides emotional support, accurate information on sexual assault issues, and appropriate referrals. 24-Hour Rape Helpline: (614) 267-7020, or toll-free via RAINN: 1-800-656-HOPE
Law Enforcement Investigation
A law enforcement officer (police/sheriff) may contact you, whether or not the perpetrator is prosecuted (goes to trial). You may have one or more follow-up interviews with a detective and will have to discuss the details of the assault again. The time and place of the interview will depend upon your physical and emotional condition. It will also depend upon the police department policies about follow-up interviews. If at anytime you feel uncomfortable as to why a certain question is being asked, you have the right to ask for an explanation. Remember, you have a right to have someone of your choosing (friend, or Sexual Assault advocate) with you during the police interview in the hospital, and can request this as the investigation progresses as well.
It is helpful to obtain the names, badge numbers, and phone numbers of the officer(s) who take the initial report at the hospital. Having this information will enable you to contact them if you recall additional information about the assault or have questions regarding the status of your case. Since not all injury shows up right away, do not be surprised if you discover additional bruising over the next day or two. If this happens, call the police officer who is handling your case as she/he may want to take additional pictures.
Follow-up Medical Care
Pregnancy & Emergency Contraception
At the hospital, you may be given a baseline pregnancy test to determine if you were pregnant at the time of the assault. Only one percent of rape survivors become pregnant as a result of sexual assault. However, if you are concerned about possible pregnancy contact your healthcare provider. If you do not have a healthcare provider, you can make an appointment with your local city or county health department or women’s health center. A urine pregnancy test is recommended three weeks after the assault.
You may also be screened at the hospital to see if Emergency Contraception (used to prevent pregnancy) is safe for you. Emergency Contraception is not 100% effective. If you have not had a period within three weeks after your sexual assault exam call your healthcare provider. It is recommended that you have a follow-up pregnancy test even if you received Emergency Contraception at the time of your post-assault exam.
What is Emergency Contraception?
Sometimes called the “morning after pill,” emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy immediately after unprotected sex. Depending on when in your menstrual cycle you had unprotected sex, you could have 1 in 3 chance of becoming pregnant. Emergency contraception can reduce your risk by 75%.
What is Unprotected Sex?
← Sex without using birth control
← Rape or sexual assault
← The diaphragm slips out of place
← The condom breaks or comes off
← You stopped taking the birth control pills for more than a week or missed almost half of the birth control pills in the past two weeks
When Do You Use Emergency Contraception?
It is most effective when started within 24 hours of unprotected sex but no later than 72 hours.
Is It Safe and How Can I Get Emergency Contraception?
Twenty years of study by the FDA says Emergency Contraception is safe and effective, but it isn’t for everyone. Survivors seen at local emergency departments are screened to see if Emergency Contraception is safe for them. After your sexual assault exam, you will be asked several questions to see if Emergency Contraception is right for you. If so, you will take the first dose at the hospital. The second dose should be taken 12 hours later and this information is detailed on your discharge sheet.
Are There Any Side Effects?
You may feel nausea and have vomiting, but these symptoms go away a day or two after treatment. If you vomit within 1 or 2 hours after taking a dose, call your physician, you may need to repeat the dose.
When Will I Have My Period?
Your next period may start a few days earlier or later than usual. If your period has not started within 3 weeks, call your physician. Emergency Contraceptives may not prevent an ectopic pregnancy (tubal pregnancy – the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus).
How Soon Can I Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraception?
You can get pregnant if you have unprotected sex immediately after taking the treatment. Until you know your HIV status you should use protective measures such as not having sexual intercourse, or using a male or female condom.
How Will I Pay For It?
This treatment is part of the Ohio Department of Health procedure for the sexual assault exam. If you are billed for this exam or if you would like more information about crime compensation, call the Sexual Abuse Forensic Examination (SAFE) Program of the Ohio Attorney General at 1-800-582-2877 or 614-466-5610.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
The results of any testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI) immediately following the assault will indicate STIs present prior to the sexual assault (baseline testing). You generally do not receive any testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI) during your sexual assault exam at the hospital because if tested in an emergency department, the results will become part of your permanent medical record, which will be confidential but not anonymous. It is recommended that you obtain anonymous testing for STIs at the health department or an outside clinic.
Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis
Testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can all be done at the same time during a follow-up exam. All three of these common STIs are fairly easy to cure with antibiotics. You may not notice any signs showing that you are infected, and therefore it is important to get a follow-up exam.
Chlamydia usually has no symptoms for women and quickly disappearing symptoms for men. If symptoms do occur, as soon as five to ten days after infection, women may experience: chronic itching, bleeding between periods, heavier bleeding for a longer time, abdominal pain, fever, painful intercourse and/or urination, or abnormal vaginal discharge. Men may experience pus or watery/milky discharge from the penis, frequency in urination, a painless lesion (sore), and/or pain or burning during urination. Similarly, both men and women may not experience symptoms of gonorrhea for several months. Symptoms may include those listed above and swelling and tenderness of the vulva for women. Both men and women should be aware that gonorrhea could exist in the anus and throat.
Testing is the only way to know if you have contracted an infection, which usually requires a pelvic/genital examination. Both chlamydia and gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics. It is recommended that you follow-up with a physician, gynecologist, or the health department in two to four weeks to be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia. If you have any of the symptoms described above, seek medical attention immediately.
The test for syphilis can be done with reliable results in six to eight weeks. A blood test is usually required, and on some occasions, a pelvic/genital exam may be necessary as well. In the early stages, women may not experience any noticeable symptoms; testing is the only way to know if you have contracted an infection. Syphilis can be treated and cured with antibiotics, especially if diagnosed in the earliest stages.
Herpes and Genital Warts
Tests for herpes and genital warts can be done when symptoms appear. The herpes virus may show some symptoms soon after the assault. Genital warts may take as long as three months to appear. If you notice any sores, blisters, or pimples in your genital or anal regions, see your doctor, gynecologist, or health department immediately.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. Because Hepatitis A, B, and C can be transmitted through infected body fluids like blood, saliva, and semen, sexual assault survivors may wish to be tested and/or treated. Hepatitis is the only sexually transmitted infection for which a vaccine exists. The approximate vaccine charges for Adult Hepatitis B are $40.00/dose, and you need three doses; Adult Hepatitis A is $25.00/dose. There is currently no vaccine for Hepatitis C. Women who take oral contraceptives (birth control pills) and have been exposed to Hepatitis should consult a doctor.
Hepatitis A: Symptoms for this type of Hepatitis may include: fatigue, nausea, fever or chills, jaundice (yellow skin), abdominal pain, dark urine, and/or light colored stools. Ordinarily, no treatment is needed because symptoms usually last only about 4 weeks. If you have been exposed to Hepatitis A you can be treated with an injection of Immune Globulin within 2 weeks at the local health department.
Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B can be very serious, causing liver damage, cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer, and can lead to death. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, dark urine, light-colored stools, and jaundice (yellow skin). It can be treated with anti-viral medication, but there is no known cure for Hepatitis B. If you have been exposed to Hepatitis B you can be treated with an injection of Immune Globulin within 2 weeks at the local health department.
Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C can be very serious, causing cirrhosis of the liver and liver cancer. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, dark-urine, light-colored stools, and jaundice (yellow skin). Chronic Hepatitis C can be treated with anti-viral medicines, which is effective for about 40% of affected people. However, there is currently no cure for Hepatitis C.
Hepatitis Immunizations
Hepatitis immunizations are available at the Columbus Health Department, at 240 Parsons Avenue, on Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 7:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Tuesday from 10:45 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Wednesday from 7:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The Columbus Health Department will see clients ages 13 and older. Clients must have identification to be seen. For more information call (614) 645-7772.
Hepatitis Immunizations are also available at the following locations.
Call (614) 645-8137 for more information.
• Southside: John Maloney Health Center, 1833 Parsons Avenue, Monday 3:30-6:30
• Barnett Recreation Center, 1184 Barnett Rd., Tuesdays 11am-6: 30 p.m.
• Hilltop Neighborhood Health Center, 2500 Sullivan Avenue, Wednesdays, 11 am-6: 30 p.m.
• Northside WIC office, 1120 Morse Road, Thursdays, 11 am to 6:30 p.m., 3rd Saturday of each month, 9am to 11:30 am
• Worthington United Methodist Church, 6000 High Street, Worthington, 3rd Tuesday of each month, 2-4pm
Repeated tests between two weeks and six months after an assault are the only way to know if you have contracted an STI.
Rape & HIV Infection
When a person is raped, control over what that person chooses to do with his/her body has been taken away. Sometimes rapists use threats of HIV infection or other sexually transmitted infections as another way to gain control of their victims. Due to the nature of rape and other types of sexual assault, it is normal and understandable for a survivor to have fears and questions about sexually transmitted infections, like HIV. Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV causes a breakdown of the immune system. When your immune system is not working, your body cannot fight diseases and infections normally. AIDS is a set of illnesses that results from HIV infection.
What is the Chance that I Was Infected with HIV during the Rape?
This is a difficult question to answer. The first question to answer is whether you were exposed to the HIV virus. Being exposed means that you were in contact with body fluids of someone who is infected with HIV. If you do not know if the rapist is infected or not, then the next factor to consider is how HIV is passed from one person to another. The following body fluids can pass HIV from one person to another: semen (sperm), blood, and vaginal fluids. In order for HIV to pass from the rapist to you, one of the above body fluids must have gotten inside your body, and the rapist must have HIV.
A number of factors can affect your risk for HIV infection from a rape:
← What was your general health before the rape happened? When you are healthy, your immune system is strong and better able to fight-off infection. Alcohol, drugs, stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can harm your immune system. Infections and sores in the mouth, vagina or anus can increase the risk that HIV enters your body. These openings create an entryway for HIV into your body.
← Was the rapist’s weapon a foreign object or body part (e.g. finger) that did not come into contact with his/her body fluids? If the rapist did not expose you to his/her body fluids, then your risk of HIV from the rape is low.
← Was the rape vaginal, oral, anal or all types? Anal penetration is thought to be the riskiest, especially if the skin in the rectum/anus becomes torn. These tears allow HIV to enter your bloodstream. Oral penetration is thought to be the least risky, but this is just a guideline. It can be risky if cuts or sores are present in your mouth. A woman is more likely to be infected from vagina/penis penetration than a man is. This is because the lining of the vagina is more sensitive to rips and tears than the penis, so the virus can more easily enter the woman’s bloodstream.
← How many rapists were there? The more rapists there were, the more likely that you were exposed to someone who is infected with HIV and the greater your risk for infection.
← Were there any physical injuries from the rape? The more cuts, tears and openings that are present, the more the chance exists for infected body fluids to enter your body.
← Was a condom or other barrier used? Condoms are good at preventing body fluids from passing from one person to another.
← Did the rapist ejaculate inside you? Although, HIV has been found in pre-ejaculatory fluid, it is less risky than if the rapist ejaculates inside your mouth, anus or vagina.
Should I Get Tested for HIV?
← Deciding to take an HIV test is a difficult decision. Many people find the idea of HIV testing to be scary. The decision can be especially difficult after a rape. It can bring up other issues such as talking about the rape or HIV with sexual partners. You are the only person who can make this decision, but you are not alone. The 24-Hour Rape Helpline is staffed by trained volunteers who can listen and assist you (614-267-7020).
← By getting tested, you can find out if you have HIV. Although there is no cure for HIV at this time, treatments are improving. People with HIV are living longer and healthier lives. Treatments can slow down the virus from spreading and prevent certain illnesses. A test may also tell you that you do not have HIV. This may help relieve one fear.
What Should I Know about HIV Testing?
← You may want to take an HIV test as soon as possible after the rape. This will tell you if you had HIV before the rape (a baseline test). This information may be useful in determining if you may have contracted HIV as a result of the assault.
← You will not be tested for HIV at Grant Medical Center or Riverside Methodist Hospital unless you request testing at the time of your exam.
← To find out if you were infected during the rape, you will need to wait at least 12 weeks from the date of the rape to be tested. This is because most HIV tests look for antibodies (your body’s reaction) to the virus. It can take your body as long as 12 weeks to make the antibodies. HIV testing should be repeated twice, at three months and six months after the assault, because it can take up to six months for antibodies to show up on the test. Until you are certain of your HIV status (after a six-month follow-up test), it is strongly encouraged that you or your partner(s) use condoms to prevent transmission of the virus. In addition, do not donate blood until that time.
← Other types of tests, which look for the HIV virus itself, may be valuable to you. You would not need to wait as long to find out if you were infected from the rape.
Anonymous & Confidential Testing:
There are two forms of testing that are available: anonymous and confidential. You have a right to choose which way is right for you. Anonymous testing means your name is not linked to your blood sample. People who choose the anonymous test are given a number code to bring back or are asked to call at a specific time to get the test result. With anonymous testing, your HIV status will not be documented. Confidential testing means your name is linked to your blood sample. The test results are protected to a certain extent by state laws, agency policies and staff commitment to confidentiality. The test results may become part of your permanent medical record. The health department is also required by law to notify any previous or current partner(s) of a positive HIV status.
For more information about HIV/AIDS, support and testing locations, call the Ohio AIDS, HIV & STD Hotline at 1-800-332-2437 or TTY # 1(800) DEAFTTY (9am-7pm M-F, 10am-6pm Saturday and Sunday), or go online to . For local HIV & STI testing information, call the Sexual Health Clinic at the Columbus Health Department, at 614-645-7772.
There are a number of ways in which the use of alcohol or drugs may contribute to an act of sexual assault. The drug most often used in sexual assaults is alcohol, which the survivor may drink by choice. In some cases, the survivor may not be aware of the amount of alcohol in drinks provided by the perpetrator. Increasingly, cases have been reported in which a variety of drugs are used by offenders to further impair the ability of the victim to prevent the assault. The drug may be added to the victim’s drink without her/his knowledge or administered in a variety of other ways.
This information is provided to assist you in making a decision regarding whether or not to provide blood and urine samples that can be used to test for drugs that you may have taken or been given. The purpose of these tests will be to identify drugs that you did not know you were ingesting, used by an offender for the purpose of committing a sexual assault. Before consenting to this testing, you should receive the following:
← Explanation of the types of drugs that will be detected by the test.
← Information about the likelihood of detecting drugs given the circumstances of your case. There are a number of factors that make detection of these drugs difficult; a negative test result does not mean that no drugs were used.
← Opportunity to discuss the effect either a positive or a negative test result may have on the investigation and prosecution of your case.
← Opportunity to discuss concerns you may have about other drugs you may have taken which would also be detected. In a criminal case the test results will be available to the defense and may become public knowledge, including results related to prescription drugs you may be taking for medical reasons and any illegal drugs you may have taken voluntarily, even if unrelated to the assault. This could also potentially lead to the release of other private information otherwise protected by rape shield laws, such as medical or mental health concerns.
← Opportunity to ask other questions and discuss concerns related to the test.
← Explanation of how you will be notified of the test results.
Because of the techniques used to conduct these tests, any drugs in your system may be detected. All drugs detected by the test will be reported to the law enforcement agency conducting the investigation and subsequently will be available to both the prosecution and the defense in the event of a criminal case. Potential drugs that may be detected include but are not limited to alcohol, Benzodiazepines, GHB, Ketamine, Scopolamine, Amphetamines, Barbiturates, Cocaine, Marijuana, Opiates, Muscle Relaxants, Antihistamines, and Chloral Hydrate.
The kinds of drugs used by offenders to facilitate rape can be very difficult to detect. Reasons for this include the speed with which the drug leaves the body and the fact that, for multiple reasons, the test may not be done within the ideal timeframe. For all sexual assaults, reporting may be delayed as victims struggle with issues of self-blame resulting from stereotypes and misconceptions about sexual assault and with discomfort or embarrassment about going through the evidence collection process. Where alcohol and drugs are involved, the victim may be unconscious or disoriented during the majority of the time that the drug is still in her/his body, or need time to piece together what happened to them or to recover from the effects of the experience. Because of these difficulties in detecting the drug, there is a high probability that even if a drug was used, the test may come back negative. This can be emotionally difficult to hear and could potentially undermine the investigation. It is important to keep in mind though, that a chemist or forensic toxicologist could explain these results in court.
Under Ohio law, sexual assault is a serious crime in both the case of intentional administration of a substance by the perpetrator and in the case of the victim voluntarily consuming the substance and therefore being in the position of being unable to consent to the sexual contact. If the victim has voluntarily consumed the substance and the offender knows that her/his ability to appraise the nature of or control of her/his own conduct is substantially impaired, the charge would be sexual battery (a third degree felony). The sexual contact would be defined as rape if, for the purpose of preventing resistance, the offender substantially impairs the other person’s judgment or control by administering any drug or intoxicant to the other person, surreptitiously or by force, threat of force, or deception. (Ohio Revised Code 2907.02 and 2907.03)
Reported symptoms experienced by survivors of drug-facilitated rape or sexual assault may include:
← Confusion
← Decreased heartbeat
← Dizziness
← Drowsiness
← Impaired judgment
← Impaired memory
← Lack of muscle control
← Loss of consciousness
← Nausea
← Reduced blood pressure
← Reduced inhibition
Symptoms may be similar to severe inebriation and/or those of a surgery patient coming out of anesthesia. Some of these symptoms are also typical of post-traumatic stress symptoms that may be present regardless of the use of substances.
Survivors who have voluntarily ingested illegal drugs should disclose this information to medical or law enforcement professionals at the time that the blood and urine samples are taken for the drug test. Honesty on this topic will assist in an effective prosecution. Be aware that engaging in felonious criminal activity may make you ineligible for compensation through the victims of crime compensation fund.
Pages 1, 2, and 5-14 of this packet are adapted from handouts in the Ohio Protocol for Sexual Assault Forensic and Medical Examination, developed by the Ohio Department of Health – Division of Prevention, Bureau of Health Promotion and Risk Reduction: Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Prevention Program, Revised July 2002
As the victim of a crime, you have the right to report the crime to law enforcement (police or sheriff). Law enforcement officers have the responsibility to serve and protect the citizens in the community, which includes investigating reported crimes.
If at anytime during the investigation process you would like to make an official comment on the actions of an officer, detective, or other employee of the law enforcement agency with which you are working, you have the right to do so. The information provided below can help you to:
• File a compliment when you would like to recognize the excellent service of your law enforcement officer(s).
• File a complaint when you feel that the law enforcement officer(s) takes action that you perceive to be unfavorable.
The back of this page lists the phone numbers of law enforcement agencies in central Ohio that you may call to make an official comment. For many of the departments, the number listed is the main or non-emergency number. For others, the listed number is that of Internal Affairs, the division responsible for investigating the actions of police officers.
To ensure accuracy, law enforcement recommends that you, as the crime victim, personally make the compliment or complaint. Most law enforcement agencies can take the compliment or complaint from another person, but will then contact the victim directly in order to proceed with any necessary investigation. The Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) can help you with this process. Please call the Long-Term advocate Coordinator at 614-566-3933 for assistance or advocacy.
For further assistance or advocacy with your case, please contact the Long-term advocate Coordinator of the Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) at 614-566-3933.
|Law Enforcement Agency |Phone Number to File Compliment or Complaint |
|Bexley Police Department |614-239-8881 main number |
|Blendon Township Police Department |614-882-8500 non-emergency number |
|Canal Winchester Police Department |614-837-7913 main number |
|Clinton Township Police Department |614-471-5720 main number |
|Columbus Division of Police |614-645-4880 Internal Affairs complaint line |
| |614-645-4580 compliment line |
|Delaware City Police Department |740-362-1111 main number |
|Delaware County Sheriff |740-833-2810 main number |
|Dublin Police Department |614-889-1112 TTY: 614-761-1027 main number |
|Franklin County Sheriff |614-462-3033 Internal Affairs |
|Gahanna Police Department |614-471-8080 main number |
|Grandview Heights Police Department |614-488-7901 non-emergency number |
|Grove City Police Department |614-277-1710 non-emergency number |
|Groveport Police Department |614-836-5301 business number |
|Hilliard Police Department |614-876-7321 TTY: 771-1300 main number |
|Madison Township Police Department |614-836-5354 non-emergency number |
|Minerva Park Police Department |614-882-1408 non-emergency number |
|New Albany Police Department |614-855-7547 non-emergency number |
|Ohio State Highway Patrol |614-466-2660 TTY: 614-644-9861 main number |
|Ohio State University Police Department |614-292-2121 Voice/TTY main number |
|Pataskala Police Department |740-927-2021 main number |
|Pickerington Police Department |614-575-6911 main number |
|Powell Police Department |614-885-3374 main number |
|Reynoldsburg Police Department |614-866-6622 non-emergency number |
|Sharon Township Police Department |614-885-3777 main number |
|Sunbury Police Department |740-965-3946 main number |
|Upper Arlington Police Department |614-459-2800 main number |
|West Jefferson Police Department |614-879-7672 main number |
|Westerville Police Department |614-901-6450 non-emergency number |
|Whitehall Police Department |614-237-6333 main number |
|Worthington Police Department |614-885-4463 main number |
If the law enforcement agency that you are working with is not listed, or if you need further
assistance or advocacy with your case, please contact the Long-Term advocate Coordinator
of the Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) at 614-566-3933.
Ohio State University Police Department Survivor’s Rights Guarantee
If you feel you are the survivor of a sexual assault on campus, the OSU Police Department will guarantee you the following:
1. We will meet with you privately, at a place of your choice in this area, to prepare a Police Report.
2. We will not release your name to the public or to the press during the course of the criminal investigation, without your consent.
3. Our officers will not prejudge you, and you will not be blamed for what occurred.
4. We will treat you and your particular case with courtesy, sensitivity, dignity, understanding, and professionalism.
5. If you feel more comfortable talking with a female or male officer, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
6. We will assist you in arranging for any hospital treatment or other medical needs, including transportation to a local hospital with appropriate survivor services.
7. We will assist you in privately contacting counseling, safety, advising, and other available resources.
8. We will fully investigate your case and will help you to achieve the best outcome. This may involve the arrest and full prosecution of the person responsible. You will be kept up-to-date on the progress of the investigation and/or prosecution.
9. We will continue to be available for you to answer questions, explain the processes involved (prosecutor, courts, etc.) and to be a listening ear if you wish.
10. We will consider your case seriously regardless of your or any suspect’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or Vietnam-era veteran status.
-----------------------
Common Reactions,
Support Services, and Follow-Up Care
Sexual Assault Exam
& Evidence Collection Process
Resources for Survivors of Sexual
Assault Who are OSU Students,
Faculty or Staff
Law Enforcement Compliment & Complaint Information
Information about
Drug-Facilitated
Sexual Assault
Resources for Survivors
of Sexual Assault
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