Since the production of the DVD and website, advancements in forensic evidence and collection.
Listed below are the latest best practice guidelines last updated on the 11/11/07:
- The newer Early evidence Kits now contain a mouth rinse and not swabs.
- You need to ensure the client wears gloves while performing the mouth rinse. Full instructions are included in the kit.
- Clients that have a tampon in place are asked not to remove this when passing urine. If the client wishes to or is considering a forensic examination the client needs to be informed that the examining professional will remove the tampon after low vaginal swabs have been obtained. The tampon advice only applies where either the tampon is in situ during the assault and is still there, or one is put in immediately after the assault. If a tampon has been changed several times, the issue about who removes it becomes less important. [link to evidence collection]
- Panty liners and sanitary towels are still to be collected as before. [link to evidence collection]
- If a doctor is required to examine a male client’s penis prior to a forensic examination or a urinary catheter is required on a male or female patient, then the doctors/nurses gloves are also to be bagged as evidence into a plastic police evidence bag. [link to evidence collection]
- In clients/victim leaflet. Under reporting to the police.
The word tampon needs to be removed and a sentence saying “used a panty liner or sanitary towel” and a new sentence. If you have a tampon in this needs to remain in place until you are examined. [link to clients/victim leaflet]
