Centering Survivor Experiences in Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation Simulation Training to Improve Patient...

Human trafficking and sexual exploitation are pervasive issues in society. Forensic nurse examiners are skilled at identifying and assisting victims of trafficking and exploitation, who frequently seek healthcare. However, forensic nurse examiners often lack specialized training for trafficking cases, unlike their training for sexual assault, and may hold biases regarding a trafficking victim's appearance, complicating their response.

To bridge this knowledge gap, a Human Trafficking/Sexual Exploitation (HT/SE) Skills Lab was created and piloted by a multistate forensic nurse education program in a Midwest metropolitan area.

A survivor-centered approach was employed by collaborating with a human trafficking advocacy agency and a youth survivor panel to design curriculum, review scenarios, and co-instruct the lab. The lab used a combination of didactic and hands-on training to address gaps in both knowledge and skill.

Nearly all participants reported an increase in knowledge, and over half showed skill improvement. Self-assessments showed 25% of learners progressed from "advanced beginner" to "competent" in handling trafficking cases. Facilitators rated learners' competence, with most participants showing advancement.

The pilot lab's success indicates that this HT/SE Clinical Skills Lab can be replicated across healthcare disciplines, potentially improving responses to HT/SE survivors beyond sexual assault contexts, but more practice is needed to reach true competence.