Preparations

It is recommended that the medical forensic sexual assault assessment occur in a quiet, safe, and private room where the entire patient assessment will not be interrupted by outside environment. The medical forensic examination is a health care assessment and should be completed in a space that is physically and psychologically safe for the patient.

  • Digital Camera or image capture system
      • Facilities must have policies in place to guide collection and appropriate secure storage of digital images, as well as policies for release or destroying of said images
      • The use of personal photography equipment or telephones for taking patient photographs is not recommended. Chain of custody and confidentiality of photographs cannot be maintained while using personal photography equipment.
  • Colposcope or other magnification system, especially for the examination of children.
  • Medical professionals should have prior training on correct use of all equipment before use.
  • Attorney General of Texas approved SAEK, which may include medical forensic documentation forms. In the event of a reduction in the availability of SAEKs, see Appendix D.
  • Other evidence collection and preservation items:
    • Paper bags
    • Evidence tape
    • Marking pens
    • Personal protective equipment including numerous changes of gloves. If facility does not have an area for drying, consider notifying law enforcement agency who has jurisdiction to collect evidence immediately.
  • Evidence will be sealed as soon as possible upon completion of examination.
  • Facilities must have locked and secured, temporary storage space for evidence that cannot be released immediately to law enforcement.
  • Evidence must be tracked in the statewide sexual assault evidence tracking system (Track-Kit) (Texas Government Code §420.034). The medical facility must enter the collection details into Track-Kit no later than two business days after the date the examination is performed. Patients will be able to track the location and status of the evidence.