What to Do After an Assault

At Providence College, we care deeply for the health, safety, and well-being of individuals on our campus. In some circumstances, individuals may need immediate safety-related assistance after an assault.  The Office of Public Safety, Residence Life staff and/or local police can assist and are available 24/7.

Medical Assistance

Medical attention is critical so that any injuries (including internal injuries) or infections that may have resulted from the incident can be treated. Any hospital emergency room is able to care for the immediate needs of all victims of sexual assault, including women, men, and transgender individuals; however, whenever possible, victims are encouraged to go to a hospital with a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program. SANE Programs have specially trained nurses who conduct examinations and collect evidence.

• In Rhode Island, Women & Infants Hospital (101 Dudley St., Providence RI 02905) and Hasbro Children’s Hospital (593 Eddy St, Providence RI 02903) have SANE Programs.
  • There is no charge for sexual assault evidence collection (aka “rape kit”). Individuals do not have to provide health insurance information to the hospital and the hospital cannot refuse treatment.
  • Individuals who do not want their insurance company to be billed should indicate to the hospital receptionist/clerk that they are “self-pay” and do not want to use insurance for the visit.
  • Students and employees are advised to preserve and record evidence, as follows:  do not wash anything (body, hair, clothing), and do not comb hair, change clothes, douche or use the toilet; bring an extra set of clothing to the hospital (or bring the clothing worn at the time of the incident to the hospital in a paper bag); make notes to create a description of the assailant, where the assault occurred, and a description and direction of travel of any vehicle involved.
  • Getting a medical exam does not mean that an individual has to press criminal charges; however, a medical exam will help to preserve evidence if an individual chooses to press charges at some Forensic evidence (aka “rape kit”) can be collected for up to 96 hours (4 days) after an assault.