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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 Forensic Nurse Exams

Strangulation Forensic Nurse Exams (FNE) are available to victims who have been choked, strangled, or suffocated, regardless of whether they reported it to the police. These exams are performed by specially trained nurses (FNE) who know how to look for injuries that may not be visible right away and can help identify and treat hidden injuries before they get worse over time.

Strangulation Forensic Nurse Exams are free and covered by Crime Victims Compensation (CVC) with no cost to victims. The costs associated to the exam, transportation (ambulance) to the hospital, and follow up treatment related  to strangulation are all eligible for coverage by CVC.

What to expect at the hospital

Once at the hospital emergency department, patients can disclose that they have been victim to an assault that resulted in being choked, strangled and/or suffocated. A strangulation Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) will be assigned to their care and provide specialized medical treatment, information and support, assess safety, collects and preserves medical findings and forensic evidence.

If victims go within 5 days of the incident, the FNE can collect evidence for the exam. Even if it’s been up to 7 days, the hospital will still provide medical care to check for any injuries and support your recovery.

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

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
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