Factors Associated with the Time for Undergoing Forensic Examination of Sexual Assault Victims in Samutsakhon Hospital

Abstract

Background: The examination and care of sexual assault victims are crucial within 72 hours due to the limitations of evidence stability and the response to preventing unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.

Objective: To study the factors associated with the time for undergoing forensic examination and medical treatment in the hospital of sexual assault victims.

Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of victims of sexual assault who were examined at Samutsakhon hospital between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2024, from the medical records of children, women and victims of violence. The study examines the victims' demographic characteristics, those who assisted in sending them, details of the assault, and other factors associated with the time for undergoing forensic examination, either within or more than 72 hours of the incident. Analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and univariable and multivariable logistic regression to identify associated factors.

Results: Among the 133 sexual assault victims, 54 (40.6%) underwent forensic examination within 72 hours, while 79 (59.4%) underwent examination after 72 hours. In this group, factors associated with the time of undergoing forensic examination of sexual assault victims were first-time event and ability to recall details of the event.

Conclusion: First-time event and ability to recall details of the event are factors associated with the time of undergoing examination (within 72 hours after the incident) in sexually assaulted victims.