Sexually assaulted

[Lurkndmurk, ADN, RN]

I know there was a topic about this on the main site. But i really needed to share mine because it just happened and i don't know where else to go..

Anyone deal with sexual assault on the job? Im kinda shook up- i was only ever worried about eventually being physically assaulted & feel super naive that the thought of this happening never occurred to me. Im used to the verbal unwanted comments, but being touched & groped along with the verbal aspect was on a whole new level. Especially because on top of it the verbage was... disturbing. A HUGE part of it thats messing me up about this situation is that the patient is super confused/disoriented/not in their right mind. I guess im confused as to being angry/upset at them because of their mental status? I don't really know how to feel about it. I didnt report it because of their mental status. I don't really know what i want here comment wise, but i just needed to discuss it because its just.. messing with my mind.

[adventure_rn, MSN, NP]

I am so, so sorry that this happened to you. (((Hugs)))

Even if the patient has an altered mental status, I think you should still let your manager know. They may have guidance about what to do in this scenario. It's really important that you're able to feel safe at work, and just because our patients are sometimes confused doesn't make assault ok.

Also, does your employer have an Employee Assistance Program? Some employers (especially hospitals) have a system in place for you to receive a 4-6 free, confidential counseling sessions to help you process difficult experiences a work. Even if your hospital doesn't have an EAP, I'd encourage you to seek out counseling (I know, our crappy behavioral health benefits in this country make it easier said than done). I do think that you could greatly benefit from talking through your experience, and as great as the AN contributors are, a trained professional is going to be way better.

Wishing you peace and comfort through this awful experience. Your feelings are entirely valid, and you aren't alone.

[CalicoKitty, BSN, MSN, RN]

You are allowed to feel however you feel about it. Many abusers are "not in their right mind" (healthy people don't abuse other people). But, that doesn't mean they don't cause harm. You can forgive if that works for you. But, let yourself feel. You can work through it in your own time. Being (sexually) assaulted is not something we should just accept as part of the job.

It is important to let people know so it is less likely to happen to other healthcare workers, such as the expectation of at least 2 healthcare workers when interacting with the patient in the future. Also, you may request to not be the nurse again. No sense in being traumatized again.