Primary Prevention of Sexual Violence - American College Health ...

Do your waiting areas, offices, and exam rooms let studentsknow that you are willing to listen and talk about sexualviolence? It is suggested that you put up posters and distributeeducational materials that lets students know they are in a“safe” place.Screening for Sexual ViolenceCurrent research demonstrates that the majority of completedand attempted sexual assaults go unreported to lawenforcement. However, survivors of sexual violence often seekhealth/wellness services secondary to an incident but onlyreveal the experience to an individual if asked at the time ofthe visit. Therefore, college health professionals have a significantopportunity to open the door to care for sexual assaultvictims and integrate primary prevention strategies to reducethe incidence of sexual violence.The following suggestions are primary prevention strategiesfor use within the college health setting:✤ Integration of screening questions for sexual violence intoall patient history forms✤ Use written assessment tools to measure vulnerability and riskbehaviors for sexual violence including alcohol/drug useOpportunities for Prevention Messagesduring Campus Health VisitsAll student visits should be inclusive of sexualviolence screening, but especially during:✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤STI testingGynecology examsPregnancy testingEmergency contraception requestsBirth control requestsHealth education visitsMental health referrals/visitsAlcohol/other drug related visitsImmunizationsSports physicalsTriage✤ Use non-threatening, inclusive language and questions whenobtaining patient information✤ Develop patient teaching methodology that addressesvulnerability and risk reduction✤ Develop patient teaching methodology that includes healthyrelationships✤ Seek training to heighten awareness of options, rights, andreferral resources for campus victimsThe topic of sexual violence is a difficult one for discussion.The following are suggested questions that can be used onintake forms or asked in a direct and non-judgmental way:✤ Has someone ever touched you in a sexual manner againstyour will or without your consent?✤ Have you ever been forced or pressured to have sex?✤ Have you ever recognized you had “unwanted” sex whiledrunk or using drugs?✤ Within the past year, have you ever felt fearful of yourpartner because of verbal or physical threats?✤ Do you feel that you have control over your sexualrelationships and your partner will respect your wishesif you say no to specific sexual activities?✤ Is your visit today due to an experience you did not want tohappen?The suggestions provided can offer a wealth of informationfrom students and allow college health professionals to evaluate,educate, treat as appropriate, and refer for further services.SURVEY RESULTS . . .Does your student health service integratequestions regarding sexual violence into yourgeneral patient history or intake forms?36.5% Yes42.9% No20.6% UnsureACHA Spring 2007 Preventing Sexual Violence Survey12