Receipts for them should be obtained when they are delivered to the laboratory or police. The FBI's help may be requested, although the FBI cannot investigate all rape cases. Also, the legal use of the results of such testing is controversial, again depending on the jurisdiction. Usually, patients are severely frightened and embarrassed and feel degraded. The anger felt by many victims may be displaced onto hospital staff members, who should be aware of this process and not be troubled by it.
Some women become promiscuous and act out of character.
The physician's report may include a brief account of the attack in the patient's words and a statement of the physician's clinical determination as to injuries and sexual activity. Stating whether rape occurred is not necessary because that is a legal determination, but a diagnosis should be recorded, including all probable or possible physical and psychologic problems. Most injuries are minor and can be treated conservatively, but severe injuries can occur and may require surgical repair. Laceration of the upper vagina may require laparoscopy to determine the depth of the injury, especially in children. Overall, the psychosocial aspects are the most potentially damaging and require sophisticated management.