Who can get a forensic exam?

Anyone that has been impacted by violence (sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, physical assault, child abuse and elder abuse) can receive a forensic exam. TXFNE cares for victims of all ages. TXFNE’s services are available regardless of immigration status, sex, gender, income level and disability

Where can I go to get a forensic exam?

Click the link below for our locations

Do I have to make a police report if I get an exam?

If you are between the ages of 18 and 64 and can make your own medical decisions, you do not have to report to law enforcement. You can still receive an exam and even have evidence collected that will be stored up to 5 years at the Houston DPS warehouse in case you decide to report in the future.

Nurses are mandatory reporters and must report to law enforcement and DFPS for all children under the age of 18, all adults 65 and older, and any person that is unable to make their own medical decisions..

Should I get an exam if it happened more than 120 hours ago?

Yes, we still encourage a medical forensic exam for patients that are passed the window of evidence collection. All other portions of the exam remain the same. There are many medical and emotional needs following an assault, therefore receiving a medical forensic exam to address medical and safety concerns is important.

How long does the exam take?

The exam takes 2-4 hours for a sexual assault exam and 1-3 hours for a domestic violence exam. This time frame can depend on many factors

What should I do to prepare for an exam?

If you’re still wearing the clothes you were wearing at the time of the assault, leave them on. If you’ve taken them off but haven’t washed them yet, bring them to the exam (in a paper bag if possible). Try not to shower, go to the bathroom, eat/drink/smoke/chew gum, or douche before your exam, this can help to preserve evidence for collection. If you must urinate, pat dry instead of wiping. Do not be discouraged if you have already done one of the above listed activities, it is still important to receive a medical forensic exam and have evidence collected

Can I bring a support person with me?

Yes, you can bring a support person with you to the exam. They may be asked to step out for some portions of the exam, but the nurse will inform you when they will be allowed back into the exam room window of evidence collection. All other portions of the exam remain the same. There are many medical and emotional needs following an assault, therefore receiving a medical forensic exam to address medical and safety concerns is important

I still have questions about the exam, is there someone I can talk to?

Yes, call our hotline for your area and press 1 to speak directly to a forensic nurse.