Steps to help victims of strangulation

Explain that a strangulation exam is vital for their health and safety. Strangulation and suffocation can cause serious internal injuries, that might not be immediately obvious, even if there are no visible marks, bruises or petechiae. Emphasize that there is no cost for the exam, as this may alleviate concerns about financial barriers.

This video was created to help victims understand more about how the exam works and why it’s important, we encourage law enforcement to watch this short video from the forensic nurses at the University of Washington. The nurses explain what happens during the exam and how it can help a victim feel safer.

Forensic nurse exam video

View the video in landscape orientation: https://vimeo.com/1015341280/87c30a3d5d

If the landscape-oriented video does not fit your screen, try the portrait orientation (good on mobile): https://vimeo.com/1018463599/da438ab816

Ensure that you have the Strangulation Supplemental Form ready to fill-out. This form is crucial for documenting details specific to the incident and their injuries.

Download the Strangulation Supplemental form

Have the victim sign this Medical Release Form. This form encompasses information needed to obtain all the necessary medical records and is valid for the duration of the case.

Download the Medical Release form

Give the victim this business card that includes a QR code that will lead them to essential information about strangulation exams. This includes details on why the exam is important for their health and safety, how to access the exam and links them to the forensic nurse exam video noted above.

https://kcpao.kingcounty.gov/strangulation

Please keep this prototcol on hand. It contains helpful information for law enforcement officers to reference when responding to domestic violence cases involving strangulation or suffocation.

Download the Strangulation Protocol document