NCJ Number
224381
Journal
Journal of Forensic Nursing Volume: 4 Issue: 3 Dated: 2008 Pages: 130-137
Date Published
2008
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article critically examines the existing literature on genital trauma and injuries of the cervix associated with sexual assault.
Abstract
Research related to cervical injury is limited; however, the review provides insight into trauma related to internal injuries to the cervix in sexual assault and rape. The review also provides direction for future research related to injuries of the cervix, specific to female genitalia and surrounding tissue. Current research is limited by descriptions of injuries and data collection procedures. Past research has not been consistent in data gathering evidence to support the direct relationship between injuries of the cervix, rape, and sexual assault. More research is needed regarding the occurrence of injuries to the cervix if forensic nurses are to fully understand the nature of cervical injury in consensual intercourse and sexual assault. An area that should be routinely examined for evidence in the sexual assault victim is the cervix. In the sexual assault examination, injury to the cervix indicative of trauma or other abnormities should be considered. Forensic nurses are educated to meet the physical and emotional needs of rape victims, perform a detailed physical and genital examination, collect forensic evidence, and testify as expert witnesses. However, the limited research related to genital injury is not conclusive for causation and defense attorneys have challenged expert witnesses’ testimony based on the existing body of literature. This review focuses on reviewing and critically evaluating available literature on injuries of the cervix associated with rape, sexual trauma, and some other circumstances. Nursing and medical studies were examined. The collective studies (N = 6) date from 1991 to 2004. More research is needed regarding the occurrence of injuries to the cervix if forensic nurses are to fully understand the nature of cervical injury in consensual intercourse and sexual assault. Table and references