S.A.F.E. Program at GBMC
The S.A.F.E. Program at GBMC is coordinated by RN’s who are specially trained and certified by the Maryland Board of Nursing. They care for victims of sexual assault and collect forensic evidence for Crime Lab analysis when authorized by Law Enforcement. S.A.F.E. nurses provide these services in the GBMC Emergency Department (ED) once the patient has been evaluated and treated for other injuries by the ED physician.
The S.A.F.E. nurse completes a full assessment of the patient, obtains forensic evidence as indicated by examination or details provided by the patient, ensures forensic evidence is handled in accordance with chain of custody requirements, provides antibiotic therapy and emergency contraception.
In addition, The S.A.F.E. Program at GBMC collaborates with an organization which provides counseling and support services for victims of sexual assault.
When the case is brought to court, the S.A.F.E. nurse may be subpoenaed to testify regarding her examination of the victim.
As a service to victims of sexual assault in Baltimore County, the S.A.F.E. Program at GBMC has established a comprehensive service in conjunction with the Baltimore County Police Department, the Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s office, local universities and sexual assault counseling providers to ensure that victims of sexual assault are treated compassionately and respectfully throughout this necessary process. The S.A.F.E. Program at GBMC is committed to provide community outreach and educational programs to teach about dating safely and how to recognize and deal with violence in relationships.
View a listing of referral sources for victims of sexual assult/domestic violence. Educational material for girls and guys is also offered.
Here are statistics from the GBMC S.A.F.E. Program as of June, 2006:
- 30 percent of GBMC forensic examsfor sexual assault involved alcohol use
- 67 percent of GBMC forensic examswere conducted on victims ages 13 – 24 years of age
- Only 17 percent of GBMC forensicexams were the result of stranger assaults. 60 percent of GBMC forensic exams were perpetrated by a suspect known to the victim – most frequently after a social occasion of partying.
- Criminal penalties in the State of Maryland for sexual assaults range from 20 years to life in prison.
