Artwork by Sarah Sabri, Advanced Course Class #18

Dear Friends,

Welcome to our latest edition of our bi-monthly newsletter. This time, we're focusing on a critical issue: identifying non-fatal strangulation in dark-skinned women. We recognize the pressing need for more information, resources, and research, and we are committed to sharing valuable tips and insights to help address this.

Non-fatal strangulation is a serious and life-threatening form of domestic violence. However, identifying the signs in dark-skinned women can be particularly challenging due to the subtlety of physical indicators. In this edition, we will provide practical tips on what to look for, including bruising, petechiae, swelling, voice changes, and other signs/symptoms.

In addition to these tips, we are sharing an article on Skin Assessment in Patients with Dark Skin Tone and a Signs and Symptoms resource. This is designed to help you better identify and understand the indicators of strangulation, especially in dark-skinned women. We hope it will be a valuable tool in your efforts to support survivors.

Moreover, the need for expanded resources and dedicated research in this area is crucial. By increasing our understanding and improving our detection methods, we can better support and protect those affected by this devastating form of violence.

As always, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all those involved in supporting survivors of domestic violence and non-fatal strangulation. Your dedication and hard work continue to bring hope and healing to those who need it most. Together, we can make a difference, one step at a time.

Always with great Hope,

Gael, Casey, Joe, Fernanda, Jess, and Jahlyssa

Tips to Identify Non Fatal Strangulation on Dark-Skinned Women

• Request that the victim examine themselves in a mirror for any visible injuries.
• Contact paramedics to perform a medical evaluation.
• Encourage the pursuit of medical treatment, as a medical diagnosis may be beneficial.
• Recommend the use of CTA and MRI/MRA imaging for a comprehensive assessment.
• Utilize our worksheet to inquire about the victim's symptoms.
• Conduct a forensic examination, as forensic nurses are trained to identify and document injuries.
• Measure the victim's neck to corroborate swelling.
• Search for petechiae, particularly in the eyes, mouth, and ears.
• Utilize high-quality equipment to capture photographs of injuries.
• Consider using alternative light sources (ALS) and take follow-up photographs as needed.
• Conduct a follow-up interview with the victim.
• Inquire whether the victim has had any contact with friends, family, or coworkers who may have observed her injuries.
• Ask the victim if she has taken any photographs of herself, especially post-incident.

Article

By Eleonor Pusey-Reid, DNP, MEd, RN, Lisa Quinn, PhD, AGACNP-BC, OCN, Mary E. Samost, DNP, RN, CENP, and

Patricia A. Reidy, DNP, FNP-BC, FNAP, FAAN

Signs and Symptoms of Strangulation

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