Which data would the nurse obtain for a woman who was sexually assaulted 2 hours ago?

Which data would the nurse obtain for a woman who was sexually assaulted 2 hours ago?

• A. Verbatim statements regarding the assault
• B. Signs and symptoms of physical trauma
• C. Signs and symptoms of emotional trauma
• D. Availability of support systems

Answer: (D)

The key idea is prioritizing safety and psychosocial support in the immediate aftermath. In the first hours after an assault, the nurse focuses on whether the patient has a support system and how to ensure safety, because this directly shapes what care can be offered right away and how the patient will cope going forward. Knowing what support is available helps mobilize resources, arrange for someone to stay with the patient, and plan next steps (like referrals to crisis services or SANE programs). This data forms the foundation for the patient’s immediate care and decision-making environment. Verbatim statements about the assault can be important later, and signs of physical or emotional trauma are also relevant, but the most immediate and actionable data to obtain is the availability of support systems, which sets up safety and ongoing care.

The key idea is prioritizing safety and psychosocial support in the immediate aftermath. In the first hours after an assault, the nurse focuses on whether the patient has a support system and how to ensure safety, because this directly shapes what care can be offered right away and how the patient will cope going forward. Knowing what support is available helps mobilize resources, arrange for someone to stay with the patient, and plan next steps (like referrals to crisis services or SANE programs). This data forms the foundation for the patient’s immediate care and decision-making environment.

Verbatim statements about the assault can be important later, and signs of physical or emotional trauma are also relevant, but the most immediate and actionable data to obtain is the availability of support systems, which sets up safety and ongoing care.