Forensic Program
Assisting Survivors of Sexual Assault & Violence in New Orleans
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, there’s help. University Medical Center New Orleans provides expert care in a safe environment.
To access service, please come to the University Medical Center Emergency Department on the second floor of the hospital and ask for help.
Our team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
About our program
For nearly 20 years, University Medical Center New Orleans has been committed to providing trauma-informed care in a safe environment after an assault. 24/7 Forensic Services are provided at University Medical Center for ages 15 & up by specially trained forensic nurses. For ages 15 and under, please contact the Children’s Hospital Audrey Hepburn Center by dialing 504.896.9237 or visiting chnola.org.
About a forensic medical examination
A forensic medical examination involving a sexual assault is free and confidential. For patients ages 18 and older, the police do not have to be notified. Upon arrival, please ask for help and you will be seen immediately.
A forensic medical examination may include evidence collection up to 5 days after a sexual assault. If it is more than 5 days since the assault, there are still services available to you.
The forensic nurse will provide one-on-one patient care for forensic medical examinations which may include:
- Education on your options
- Patient advocate
- Forensic evidence collection
- Forensic photography
- HIV/STD testing & prevention medications
- Laboratory Testing
- Pregnancy Prevention Options
- Clothing & toiletries if needed
- Referrals for follow-up services
- A safety plan
Our team can also provide you with help in reporting to law enforcement, if desired. A forensic medical examination is based on the decision(s) of the patient. Each patient is in control of which parts of the examination he/she would like to participate in.
About our forensic nurses
Our specially trained forensic nurses are experienced nurses who have successfully completed over 200 hours of training. Forensic Nurses at University Medical Center follow the International Association of Forensic Nursing Educational Guidelines.
24/7 local confidential crisis hotlines
Sexual Trauma Awareness & Response (STAR)
855.435.STAR or
504.407.0711
New Orleans Family Justice Center
504.866.9554
