Trauma-Informed Care for Children Youth - Marita Smith

How prepared do you feel to care for children and youth who
have experienced abuse or assault?


1 in 10 Canadians (7.8%) over 15 report at least one
instance of sexual abuse before age 15 (Stats Canada)

Up to 88% of people being trafficked access health care
(Polaris Project) - many don’t disclose they are being
trafficked

Highest rates of intimate partner violence occur between
age 12-24 (Stats Canada)

Young people aged 15-24 years have the highest rate of
sexual assault (Gov’t of Canada)



In this episode, we will explore the presentation of sexual
abuse, sexual assault and sex trafficking in the pediatric
setting and discuss trauma and violence informed care practices
to guide paramedic care. We will also discuss: 




- gaps and barriers to care in this population




- practical tips to guide trauma and violence informed
care including what not to ask 




- role of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner and care available
in Ontario through the Network of Sexual Assault and Domestic
Violence Treatment Centers (SADVTC's) 




- mandatory and consent based reporting 




- prevelence and risks of strangulation in the context of
sexual assault and intimate partner violence and the importance
of thorough assessment and imaging