Medical exams performed by Primary Children’s Safe and Healthy Families

Each child who comes to the CJC is offered a free medical exam performed by medical professional specially trained in child physical and sexual abuse. These are provided through Primary Children’s Safe and Healthy Families. Medical exams may also be requested for the child by law enforcement or child protective services. These exams are completed onsite at the Children’s Justice Center in a more child-centered environment.

Purpose of Exam

A forensic medical exam is performed to evaluate and treat children who have been physically or sexually abused. Examinations are comprehensive and carefully conducted in a child-friendly setting and include medical history and a non-invasive head-to-toe physical exam. When there are concerns of sexual abuse, the exam may include treatment for sexually transmitted infections and other testing. Following a report of acute sexual assault, forensic evidence may be collected by the medical practitioners. Medical staff may order x-rays or laboratory tests to aid in the evaluation. All forensic medical evaluations take into account physical and emotional effects of child maltreatment. Equally important is the reassurance children receive in knowing their bodies are “okay” after abuse has occurred.

What to Expect

The medical examination will take place at the Children’s Justice Center, in our special medical room. The exam takes approximately 2 hours. Medical history is collected from the parent or caregiver including the child’s primary care doctor to facilitate coordination of care. Exam findings are photographed, with the use of a DSLR camera or special instrument, called a colposcope. Photos allow medical professionals to interpret findings in greater detail and allows for expert reviews without having a repeat examination. Our medical team makes every effort to deliver evidence-based medical care in a trauma-informed manner, seeking permission from the child with every step.

What you can tell your child about the medical examination:

• This is to make sure that his or her body is ok and healthy.
• The exam will not hurt.
• You can ask the nurse any questions you might have.
• The nurse will tell you everything she will do.
• You can stop it at any time.