The aim of this week is to recognise the work of forensic nurses and to equip them to deal with issues impacting patients’ health and well-being when treating crime and violence victims.

ALSO READ: Port Shepstone nurse wins national award

Port Shepstone Hospital is proud to have one of the best forensic nurses who deals with sexual assault cases, Professional Nurse Duduzile Ndlovu. The role that she plays includes a number of activities including the following:-

• Taking DNA samples from the victims if they reported their cases within 72 hours.
• Sealing the evidence pack and filling in the legal forms for handing over to the investigating officer.
• Taking DNA samples from the alleged perpetrators if they are apprehended within 72 hours after committing the crime.
• Performing HIV tests for the alleged perpetrators as per victims’ request if it is submitted within 90 days of opening a case.
• Facilitating termination of pregnancy  as a result of rape and taking the products of conception to the laboratory for DNA comparisons with the DNA of the alleged suspect.
• Conducting examinations of patients who are suspected of concealing births
• Taking DNA swabs from family of a deceased victim for comparisons with the human remains of victims who are burnt beyond recognition.
• Documenting physical injuries for court purposes on physical assault cases and also conducting outreach programs in communities to increase the rate of reported cases of gender based violence, including child abuse.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram