Adult Caregiver Experience after Attending with a Child for Paediatric Forensic Examination following suspected Child Sexual Abuse
Date
2022
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Irish Medical Journal
Abstract
Aim
The aim of this research was to explore the experience of adult caregivers and their child attending a
clinic for a Paediatric Forensic Medical Exam (PFME) after a disclosure of Child Sexual Abuse. The
feedback provided will inform changes to service provision.
Methods
Participants were prospectively recruited when they attended the clinic with their child. The
questionnaire was specifically designed to obtain adult caregiver perceptions of the PFME and the
experience of their children. Anonymous questionnaires were returned via post.
Results
Ten out of twenty-seven questionnaires were returned (37.5% response rate). All respondents were
female. Ten girls and one boy were represented in the data collected. Two of ten adult caregivers
reported that they felt inadequately informed as to what the forensic examination entailed prior to
attendance. Both were referred by social workers. Adult caregivers reported fear and anxiety about
the examination but also understood its importance with eight of ten caregivers stating that
examination was “necessary”. Most adult caregivers are not fully prepared for the examination
despite most adult caregivers reporting they received enough information. Adult caregiver concern
was more prevalent pre-examination compared to post examination.
Conclusion
This study highlights the importance of pre-attendance preparation for adult caregivers who will
accompany a child to a PFME following suspected child sexual assault to address and support fear and
anxiety associated with the process.
Description
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Article
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Keywords
caregivers, medical examination, child sexual abuse, qualitative research, International Resources, Ireland, anxiety
Citation
Mc Govern, R., Walsh, A., Roe, S., Curtis, E., Murtagh, U., Bedford, H., & Harty, S. (2022). Adult Caregiver Experience after Attending with a Child for Paediatric Forensic Examination following suspected Child Sexual Abuse. Ir Med J, 115(9), P673.