My 9 year old patient was raped and required surgery

Jesus...

Nurses that can work with children are angels. I swear.

I am so sorry for that little girl, and I admire you so much for being able to do what you do. I cannot imagine how I would handle that situation. I do have a question though. Why isn't she allowed visitors? I would think that even one familiar face would help her. A family member with no connection to the assault? Can she have any toys or stuffed animals? Little things go a long way; even a hug when she's comfortable accepting one. As for you, we are here for you to lean on when you need it. Keep leaning during this.

I was thinking maybe you could give her a journal. Say something like "I saw this and it made me think of you. I know you can get bored in the hospital, so I thought you'd like a journal to write in"

That may help her by showing that you care, giving her something to do, and it lets her get her emotions out in a safe way.

I'm in tears reading this.

No ideas. Just lots of love to you, and to that poor child.

Eye contact/kind words and a tender touch will go along way...god bless you for taking good care of her.

I just can not imagine, my heart is breaking just thinking of this situation. Maybe she cant have visitors as her parents are in lock up for killing the monster that did this to her. Thats probably where I would be.

I only ever had 1 rape pt---make sure ALL you documentation is deatiled and perfect...as it will most likely be used in a court case.

Sending hugs your way. I had a similar patient a few weeks ago. All you can do is try to be a stable, caring, trustworthy adult figure in her day. You might be the only one she knows.

That is beyond words, it's so horrible. I would have a hard time handling this emotionally. I'll pray for that girl today.

You are, as Stan said, a hero (or angel) to me.

I'll be praying for this innocent child and for you.

steph

Would she let you hold her? Do you have the time? Poor baby, because 9 is still a baby. Its possible that she isn't allowed visitors because of the identity of the perpetrator, and pressures that might be brought to bear on her. My heart goes out to you both. I liked the journal idea someone had. And if she'll let you...a hug can go a long long way towards healing a heart, that and a willingness to be there for her. She'll bear the scars of this life long...and I don't mean the physical ones. This I know, believe me. But its how people treat her now that can influence how she'll deal with it. Be open. People don't talk to you, people act like nothing happened, people act embarrassed. You learn to stuff it down and be ashamed, and that isn't good.

Sorry. the soapbox got activated.

Blessings to you both