FOR5005 - Adult sexual assault - 2019

Sexual assault is addressed in this unit as it pertains to a doctor working in a therapeutic and forensic role with victims. Theoretical and historical perspectives are considered in order to provide a thorough grounding for practical discussions on current legislation and police investigation. The medical role will be examined in detail. Forensic responsibilities are dealt with including specimen collection, laboratory liaison and injury interpretation. The unit will address the medico-legal report and the role of the expert witness in court appearances.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Provide a comprehensive medical service for a victim of sexual assault, including consultation, examination, and documentation;
2. Apply comprehensive knowledge of forensic responsibilities in sexual assault cases, including medical responsibilities related to acute injuries, pregnancy issues, medical certificates and prophylaxis;
3. Collect forensic evidence based on the application of relevant scientific and legal methods theory;
4. Demonstrate strong familiarity with the laboratory treatment of forensic evidence;
5. Write a medico-legal report and appear in court under subpoena to assist the court;
6. Evaluate epidemiological, historical, theoretical and cultural aspects across a broad range of circumstance in which sexual assault;

• Case Study (2000 words) 25%
• Case Presentation (15 minutes) 20%
• Workbook (1600 words) 20%
• Essay (2800 words) 35%

Hurdle Requirement

A pass in all elements of assessment is required. Students must obtain at least 50 % of the available marks for each element of assessment to pass the unit.

Compulsory 2 day workshop.

Forensic medicine

postgrad.courses@vifm.org