The forensic nurse examiners (FNEs) at Meritus Medical Center are here to serve a variety of patient populations who are victims of violence. After an assault, many people have mixed emotions and do not feel comfortable talking to the police. You do not have to make that decision right away. You have options as long as you do not fall under mandated reporting guidelines. Our FNEs are specially trained to provide care for patients who have been victims of interpersonal violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse and other forms of violence. The team collects evidence, provides injury identification and documentation, obtains photographs and testifies in court if needed.
At Meritus Medical Center, we want you to feel safe and comfortable. Our FNEs collaborate with community agencies, including law enforcement, Citizens Assisting and Sheltering the Abused (CASA), Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services and the Child Advocacy Center.
Our forensic nurse team can be reached by calling 301-790-8300 (urgent) or 301-790-8832 (non-urgent). In the event you reach a voicemail box, please leave a message and indicate whether or not it is okay for the FNE to leave a voicemail. If you are in danger, please call 911.
National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888
National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Community Resource Contact Information
Important Contacts:
Protective and peace order information
CASA - 301-739-8975 (24hr hotline for victims of domestic violence)
Protective Services (Adult & Child) - 240-420-2222
Child Protective Services
Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault - 301-328-7023
Sexual Assault Legal Institute (SALI) - 301-565-2277
National Human Trafficking Hotline - 1-888-373-7888
National Domestic Violence Hotline - 1-800-799-7233
What types of services do Forensic Nurse Examiners offer?
- Medical Forensic examinations—Individualized assessment focusing on areas of injury relating to the assault or abuse. This may include photo-documentation and collection of forensic evidence. As a part of the exam, the FNE will have specialized documentation of your injuries. This may be admissible in legal proceedings.
- Onsite medical treatment—This may include administration of medication to prevent sexually transmitted infection and pregnancy. Risk assessment for HIV exposure may be completed. If you are receiving medical care related to a sexual assault, the cost of your care will be free of charge, even if you do not want police involved.
- Danger assessment—an individualized assessment to stratify your risk with a current intimate partner.
- Safety Planning and referrals—FNEs will work collaboratively with community partners such as CASA Inc., and investigating agencies, to provide you comfort and reassurance prior to leaving. This may include emergency shelter and obtaining a protective order, if needed.
- Court testimony—FNEs are available to be subpoenaed to testify as an expert witness in legal proceedings.