Compassionate after assault care in Manhattan
Your safety is our top priority. If you have been physically or sexually assaulted, we are here for you. You may choose to have a forensic evaluation after being assaulted. Our specialists listen to you and your concerns. Then, we deliver the care you need. At Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, we have a dedicated forensic nursing team. Our care includes:
- Emergency care
- Forensic examination with a trained sexual assault nurse
- Support from the Crisis Center
- Sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment
- Coordinating follow-up care and support
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or call 911. Signs or symptoms of an acute emergency may include shortness of breath, chest pain, open fracture, fainting, severe bleeding, head injury or other major trauma, one-sided weakness or numbness, loss of consciousness/fainting, severe abdominal pain, or bites.
To talk with a care team member or learn more about the program, call 785-323-6880.
Specialists dedicated to your care
When you come to Ascension Via Christi for care after an assault, know you will have a specialist dedicated to your care. We have a forensic nurse who has specialized training to help those who have been assaulted. You will be cared for in a safe, private and compassionate environment. You will have a thorough assessment, a complete event report and medical history, as well as the collection of forensic evidence. Your nurse can also help with photo documentation, community resources, and if needed, testifying in court. We are here to provide the care and support you need.
We care for those who have experienced assault, including:
- Sexual assault
- Violence and domestic abuse
- Elder abuse and neglect
- Human sex trafficking
Care teams at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan connect you with resources and organizations within the community. Our goal is to treat each person as a whole and give back as much control as possible within this process.
What to do if you are sexually assaulted
It is important to know you have options. We work closely with law enforcement if you are wanting to report your assault. You do not have to report your assault to the police department if you do not want to. We listen to your concerns and respect your preferences. Your forensic nurse takes the time to discuss this with you at the start of the exam.
Here are some ways you can help preserve evidence, if possible:
- Avoid showering or bathing
- Avoid changing clothes
- Avoid urination (if possible)
- Avoid having a bowel movement (if possible)
- Do not brush your teeth
- Do not use mouthwash
- Do not drink anything
- Do not douche
If you already did any of the above listed, that is OK. Evidence can still be collected within 5 days (120 hours) of the assault. If you have any other items that are related to the assault, bring them to the exam for evidence collection or hand it over to law enforcement.
What to expect during a forensic exam:
- You will be asked to give consent for the exam or kit collection.
- A safety plan will be created.
- Your exam and medical information will be kept private.
- You will have a trusting and caring care team.
- Education on each step of the process.
- We will gather detailed documentation of the event.
- You may have an assessment and genital exam.
- Evidence may be collected
- You may be given STI treatment, if needed.
- We will share resources and create a plan for follow-up care.
- You may have an advocate from the Crisis Center.
Patient rights
All patients have the right to a sexual assault or forensic examination. Patients over 18 may choose whether or not to report the assault to law enforcement. If not reported to law enforcement, all evidence collected will be held by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation for five years to allow assault survivors the option to officially report the event. Law enforcement officials must be notified of assault patients who are 17 and younger.
Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan will not contact law enforcement without your written permission. However, health care providers are mandated reporters and are required to report child abuse, abuse of vulnerable adults, and certain serious wounds regardless of whether consent is provided.
If you or a loved one are a victim of sexual assault, you are not alone. Our forensic nursing program can provide support and resources to local community partners to provide assistance.
Resources in the community
Since 1979 the Crisis Center has assisted survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Clay, Geary, Marshall, Riley and Pottawatomie counties. This service can include shelter, advocacy, safety planning, and many other services. The advocates from the Crisis Center can play an integral role in assisting survivors to find the support needed to overcome these traumatic events. All services are confidential and free.
Crisis 24-Hour Hotline: 785-539-2785
Kansas Statewide Hotline: 1-888-363-2287
Crisis Center, Inc. administrative offices in Manhattan: 785-539-7935
Crisis Center, Inc. office in Junction City: 785-762-8835
Riley County Police Department
Non-emergency: 785-537-2112
Emergency: 911
1001 South Seth Child Road
Manhattan, Kansas 66502
Kansas State University resources
The Center for Advocacy, Response and Education (CARE), was established in 1973. This office assist K-State students and faculty members who have been victims/survivors of sexual violence, dating violence, stalking and sexual harassment. Offering free and confidential advocacy services that help navigate the policies and procedures of K-State University. As well as assist with resources, and community education.
Kansas State University
206 Holton Hall
1101 Mid-Campus Drive N
Manhattan, KS 66506
Kansas State University Police Department
Our forensic nursing team works very closely with several different community members not listed above, to raise awareness in the community and help provide valuable resources to survivors. Including but not limited to the County Attorney’s office, the Department for Child and Families, other law enforcement agencies and many more.
