What follow-up care should I provide to a patient who has reported a sexual assault, including physical and mental health considerations?

Follow-up care for a patient who has reported a sexual assault should include comprehensive physical and mental health support.

Physically, the patient should be offered access to specialist sexual health services and a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for medical and forensic investigations if appropriate. Ongoing monitoring of physical wellbeing and any injuries is essential, with referrals to relevant services as needed.

Mental health care should include assessment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other psychological impacts. The healthcare professional should provide validation and reassurance, recognizing that disclosure may be delayed due to feelings of shame or fear. A comprehensive psychosocial assessment should be conducted, including risk assessment and evaluation of the patient’s emotional and social needs.

Referral to mental health services, including trauma-focused psychological therapies, should be considered, especially if symptoms of PTSD or other mental health conditions are present. Care should be coordinated with clear responsibility for monitoring and follow-up, ensuring continuity of care and support for the patient’s safety and wellbeing.

Follow-up appointments should be arranged to monitor physical recovery and mental health, with the patient seen alone to ensure confidentiality. The healthcare provider should be alert to indicators of further abuse or safeguarding concerns and follow appropriate referral pathways.

Additional support may include counselling, advocacy, housing, financial advice, and substance misuse services depending on individual needs. The approach should be trauma-informed, sensitive, and patient-centred, with ongoing support tailored to the patient’s evolving needs.