Child abuse examination enquiry

To determine how police surgeons in the United Kingdom performed examinations of child abuse victims because wide variations in protocols and procedures have been reported.

Practising members of the Association of Police Surgeons were requested to complete an enquiry form. Replies were anonymous and subjects covered included gender, work area, training, procedures and protocols for joint examinations with paediatricians and the use of digital or instrument examinations in alleged penetrative sexual abuse.

Of all those eligible, 47.7% had responded. Males made up 74.7% of respondents. Published guidelines were followed by 85.3% and 69.8% used purpose-built examination suites while 8.8% still used police station facilities. Procedures for joint examinations were working satisfactorily, according to 79.2% of respondents who also considered that the forensic physician should take the lead role in examinations. Clinical findings were recorded on a prepared aide memoire by 35.2%. Colposcopes were used by 3.4% while 23.3% of respondents considered that a colposcope should be used but cost was an inhibiting factor.

Reported variations in procedures and protocols in examining child abuse victims were confirmed. More discussion and liaison between agencies concerned is required and a firm commitment to the paramountcy of the child's interests is needed.