A medical evaluation holds an important place in the multidisciplinary assessment of child abuse. An accurate history is essential in making the medical diagnosis and determining appropriate treatment of child abuse. Because children learn early the helping roles of doctors and nurses, they may disclose information to healthcare personnel that they might not share with investigators.
The medical component of CSH is contractually provided by Texas Forensic Nurse Examiners (TXFNE). The TXFNE medical team consists of a Medical Director, Nurse Practitioner and a team of forensically trained Registered Nurses (RN) who has been specially trained in conducting sexual abuse medical evaluations and have completed and maintain the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Pediatric certification with the Office of the Attorney General for the State of Texas and/or the International Association of
Forensic Nurses.
All children 18 years of age and younger, in Montgomery, Walker and San Jacinto Counties with physical indications of sexual assault or with a history and/or outcry of sexual assault can be referred to CSH medical clinic for a Medical/Forensic examination through the appropriate referral process.
The purpose of a medical evaluation in alleged child abuse cases extends far beyond providing an evidentiary evaluation for the purpose of the investigation. The primary goals of the medical evaluation are to:
- Help ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the child;
- Evaluate, document, diagnose, and address medical conditions resulting from abuse;
- Differentiate medical findings that are indicative of abuse from those which may be explained by other medical conditions;
- Document, diagnose, and address medical conditions unrelated to abuse;
- Assess the child for any developmental, emotional, or behavioral problems needing further evaluation and treatment and make referrals as necessary;