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A forensic nurse examiner program has been established at Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital. This crucial medical service is now available to patients of all ages and genders who have experienced physical violence or sexual assault.
The addition of this service to the Lexington hospital builds on Carilion’s broad forensic nursing offerings, with dedicated teams already operating at four other Carilion hospitals in Rocky Mount, Roanoke, New River Valley and Giles. Services will be expanded to Tazewell later this month.
“When a patient comes into our care who has experienced sexual assault, abuse or domestic violence, they need someone with the expertise to provide compassionate care and treatment while gathering objective information,” said Heather Smith, director of the program. “Our specially trained forensic nurses deliver immediate crisis intervention to patients and equip them with the information they need to make medical, legal and safety decisions. Additionally, our forensic nurses can gather information, if appropriate, that can then be used to prosecute violent perpetrators.”
With the addition of the program to Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital,, specially trained nurses became available to deliver immediate crisis intervention around the clock to patients of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, physical assault, and violence. The program links the patient to the judicial system, law enforcement, community services and forensic laboratories that process evidence following a violent act. In addition, the latest technology in forensic imaging, Coretexflo, was recently delivered to all Carilion hospitals that offer this service. This enhanced equipment allows examiners to take highquality, evidence-grade images that are then safely and securely stored.
“Our patients’ well-being is our top priority. Expanding this program into the Lexington-Rockbridge community while utilizing the latest technology means patients receive expert, specialized care during an extremely difficult time,” said Smith.
Patients who would like more information about this program can call (540) 458-3300 or visit CarilionClinic.org/ Forensic-Nursing.
This is the second forensic nurse examiner program to be established recently in the Rockbridge area. The Augusta Health Forensic Nursing Center opened earlier this year just north of Lexington. Fittingly, April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, just as these new services have become available locally.
