Strangulation forensic examination: best practice for health care providers

Diana Faugno1, Daria Waszak, Gael B Strack

  • 1Barbara Sinatra Children's Center, Rancho Mirage, California (Ms Faugno); California Western School of Law, San Diego (Ms Strack); Family Justice Center Alliance, San Diego, California (Ms Strack and Mr Gwinn); and Forensic Consultant Services, LLC, Monroe, Michigan (Ms Brooks). Ms Waszak is a Freelance Nurse Writer.

Summary

Healthcare providers should directly ask interpersonal violence (IVP) survivors about strangulation, as it often lacks visible signs but can cause critical injuries. This guide outlines best practices for forensic examination and documentation of strangulation victims.

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