Frequently Asked Questions
1
What services are provided at the SAFE Center?
We provide services to victims of sexual assault including:
-forensic examinations
-evidence collection
-treatment against STI's
-treatment against pregnancy
-follow up care including medical advocacy as well as counseling and support group services
2
What is a rape kit?
A rape kit is a state-issued kit that includes materials used for the collection of evidence during a forensic exam. It may also be referred to as a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit.
3
Why is it important to have a forensic exam?
After sexual assault, it's hard to know what to do or how to feel. The staff of the SAFE Ceneter will be there to help you. The decision to have a forensic exam is completely up to you. However, it will preserve the evidence that is needed should you desire to seek justice now or later.
4
What should I do if I have been sexually assaulted?
If you need immediate medical attention because of significant bleeding, broken bones, or if you are pregnant, go directly to the nearest hospital. If you are medically stable, call the SAFE Center hotline and a nurse will meet you at the center within one hour.
5
Is there anything I should NOT do before coming to SAFE?
You should NOT:
-take a bath/shower or clean yourself in any way
-brush your teeth
-go to the bathroom
-brush your hair
-change your clothes
-eat or drink anything
6
What if I have showered, changed clothes, etc?
If you have showered or changed since the assault, but you are still within the 72 hour window, evidence can still be collected. You SHOULD bring any items that were with you during the assault (bedsheets, towels, condoms, washcloths, anything that may contain evidence). If you have any items, you can bring them with you in a brown paper bag or grocery bag. If your bring anything with you, tell the nurse as soon as you arrive so she can re-package it.
7
What can I expect when I arrive at TSC?
You will be met by a nurse and an advocate. The advocate is trained to help you through the exam and can connect you with post-assault resources.
The nurse will first interview you to gather basic information and determine the specifics of the assault, all of which will guide the exam and evidence collection.
The exam is conducted in a room with state-of-the-art equipment. A head-to-toe exam is completed and forensic evidence is collected.
You will be given the opportunity to shower, all shower items are new and provided, and will be given new, clean clothes to change into.
Your advocate will make sure you have a safe place to go and will give you information about any services you may need or want.
8
How long does the exam take?
The exam generally lasts two to three hours. During this time you are working one-on-one with a nurse. The nurse conducts the interview and forensic exam/evidence collection.
10
Do I have options as to whether I press charge/disclose to the police?
The staff at The SAFE Center with inform you of all your decisions and will help you maneuver through reporting. Please be aware that federal law mandates that you do not have to file a police report to receive a forensic exam. Please refer to the reporting tab under If You've Been Sexually Assaulted on the menu above for more information about your reporting options.
9
What if I am unsure what happend to me?
You should still call the SAFE Center hotline and speak to a nurse to determine your level of risk and need for treatment.
11
What if I am unsure if I want to involve law enforcement?
It is ok to be unsure, the nurse will guide you through your reporting options and the decision is yours to make. At The Tuscaloosa SAFE Center, we have built strong relationships with law enforcement in West Alabama. If you decide to involve law enforcement TSC will help coordinate these services. Please note that survivors are our first priority!