Improving Care After Sexual Assault: A Needs Assessment for a Standardized, Patient-Centered Educational Resource [ID: 1377465]

INTRODUCTION: Prompt medical and psychiatric follow-up improves outcomes among survivors of sexual assault (SSAs). The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends clinical and psychological follow-up within 1–2 weeks, yet only one-third receive such care within 1 year. In the setting of acute trauma, SSAs are unlikely to retain much information and discharge paperwork should be provided, including follow-up resources and patient education. Lack of standardization may result in wide variation of these handouts and negatively affect follow-up rates. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of discharge paperwork was performed of SSA patients presenting to a tertiary care emergency department from May to October 2022. Per World Health Organization guidelines for sexual assault (SA) follow-up, the elements evaluated included 1) acute SA treatment (human immunodeficiency virus, sexually transmitted infection, and pregnancy prophylaxis), 2) clinical and psychological follow-up resources, and 3) community resources for SSA. Institutional review board approval was obtained. RESULTS: A total of 39 SA handouts were evaluated. Only two-thirds (27/39) contained instructions regarding post-SA medications, 82% (32/39) included medical follow-up information, a quarter (10/39) included mental health resources, and one-third (13/39) included community resources. CONCLUSION: Timely follow-up after SA reduces patient morbidity. This initial needs assessment demonstrated a wide variation in completeness of discharge paperwork for SSA. As a result, a standardized handout was created, including a timeline of acute and long-term follow-up objectives and a comprehensive list of patient resources, which was incorporated into the electronic medical record system. This model can empower SSA to obtain follow-up care, improve outcomes, and address potential disparities in care.