Trauma-Informed Care for Children Youth - Marita Smith

Critical Levels

How prepared do you feel to care for children and youth who have experienced abuse or assault?

• 1 in 10 Canadians (7.8%) over 15 report at least one instance of sexual abuse before age 15 (Stats Canada)
• Up to 88% of people being trafficked access health care (Polaris Project) - many don’t disclose they are being trafficked
• Highest rates of intimate partner violence occur between age 12-24 (Stats Canada)
• Young people aged 15-24 years have the highest rate of sexual assault (Gov’t of Canada)

In this episode, we will explore the presentation of sexual abuse, sexual assault and sex trafficking in the pediatric setting and discuss trauma and violence informed care practices to guide paramedic care. We will also discuss:

- gaps and barriers to care in this population

- practical tips to guide trauma and violence informed care including what not to ask

- role of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner and care available in Ontario through the Network of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centers (SADVTC's)

- mandatory and consent based reporting

- prevelence and risks of strangulation in the context of sexual assault and intimate partner violence and the importance of thorough assessment and imaging