The forensic nurse examiners (FNEs) at Meritus Medical Center are here to serve a variety of patient populations who are crime victims. 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 crimes. 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. The Federal Violence Against Women Act allows Meritus Medical Center's FNEs to provide their services free of charge even when the police are not involved. Our FNEs also collaborate with community agencies, including law enforcement, Citizens Assisting and Sheltering the Abused (CASA), Child Protective Services and the Child Advocacy Center.
Our forensic nurse team can be reached by calling 301-790-8300 or 301-790-8832.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of services do Forensic Nurse Examiners offer?
- Forensic examinations
- Onsite medical treatment
- Emergency contraception
- Screenings and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Domestic violence screenings and assessments
- Resources for assistance finding a safe shelter
- Elder abuse and elder neglect screenings and forensic exams
- Child abuse and neglect screenings and forensic exams
How do I report a sexual assault?
After a sexual 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 if you do not fall under mandated reporting guidelines, which you can access at this link. In Maryland, you can have evidence collected anonymously and stored for up to 20 years before making a decision to report.
Important Contacts:
- Emergency Services: 911
- Meritus Medical Center Emergency Department: 301-790-8300
- Meritus Medical Center Forensic Nurse Examiner (non-urgent): 301-790-8832
- Citizens Assisting and Sheltering the Abused (CASA) Crisis Hotline: 301-739-4990
- Washington County Child Advocacy Center/Safe Place 240-420-4308
- 24-Hour Emergency Hotline, Washington County Department of Social Services) 240-420-2222
- Protective Services (Child, Adult, Elder) 240-420-2222
- Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA) 301-328-7023
- MCASA Sexual Assault Legal Institute (SALI) 877-496-7254
- National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233
- Human Trafficking Hotline 888-373-7888