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Strangulation information – Prosecuting Attorney's Office

Learn more about the signs of strangulation, how to properly report it, and where to get a Strangulation Forensic Nurse Exam. Information from Victim Services - Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

Strangulation

Strangulation is physical force applied externally that restricts either air or blood to or from the brain. It is an ultimate form of power and control, is a felony offense, and may be an attempted homicide. Over half of strangulation victims do not have visible external injuries. There can be a delayed onset of symptoms after a strangulation, and during a strangulation unconsciousness may occur within seconds and death within minutes.

Choking is when the airway is internally blocked by a foreign object.

The act of strangulation significantly increases the chance of a future homicide in family abuse cases, including domestic violence, child abuse, and elder abuse.

Signs and symptoms include:

  • Neck pain
  • Sore throat
  • Vision changes (spots, tunnel vision, flashing lights)
  • Neck swelling
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Urination or defecation
  • Mental status changes
  • Red eyes or spots (petechiae)
  • Voice changes
  • Unsteady movement
  • Possible loss or lapse of memory or consciousness
  • Droopy eyelid (Ptosis)
  • Droopy face
  • Hearing changes
  • Light headedness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Jaw pain
  • Difficulty swallowing

Strangulation Forensic Nurse Exams

These exams are available to those who have been choked, strangled, or suffocated, regardless of whether they reported it to the police. Strangulation exams are important because serious medical complications can occur, including a stroke, even with no visible injuries.

Strangulation Forensic Nurse Exams are free and covered by Crime Victims Compensation (CVC) with no cost to victims.

A strangulation Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) provides medical treatment, information and support, assess safety, collects and preserves medical findings and forensic evidence. The ambulance is free, as well as the FNE and treatment. (Note: Ambulance reimbursement is done separately under CVC). These exams are only offered in participating hospitals.

If you present within 5 days of the assault

You will be seen in the emergency room in a visit between the doctor, social worker and FNE. The FNE provides exam and evidence collection.

If you report strangulation within the last 7 days

You will be seen and evaluated in the emergency department by a doctor and social workers.

Examination locations

To get a Strangulation Forensic Nurse Examination in King County, go to any of the following emergency departments and let ER staff know you were strangled:

Seattle

After hours and weekends

East King County

South King County

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