06 | Sexual Abuse with Jennifer Stanfield, PA

Jennifer Stanfield, PA, with more than 20 years of experience talks about the very important and serious topic of child sexual abuse and sexual assault. Jennifer explains that 1 out of 4 girls and 1 out of 6 boys will face sexual abuse before they turn 18. She shares that most of the time, the person who hurts the child is someone they already know and trust. Jennifer talks about how abusers can trick families and kids (this is called "grooming"), how abuse happens, and why it’s so important for doctors and nurses to know the signs.

Jennifer also talks about what happens in the emergency room (ER) when a child comes in for help. She explains how to check the child safely, when to collect evidence, and how doctors work with DCS (Department of Child Services) and the police to keep kids safe. She shares tips on how to talk with parents and how to get help from special places like Children’s Advocacy Centers.

The episode also covers what happens when a child or teenager has been sexually assaulted, including how the law works, checking for injuries, preventing infections, and finding counseling to help kids heal. Jen reminds doctors and nurses to take care of themselves too, because helping kids through hard situations can be very tough. She also talks about working together with police, social workers, and local centers to make sure kids are safe and get the care they need.

Resources:

- National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

- Child Advocacy Centers: Local centers that provide forensic interviews and support for child abuse victims.