Final answer:
Clients reporting sexual assault should undergo medical examination, counseling, and legal consultation, addressing their immediate physical health, psychological well-being, and legal rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clients who report sexual assault within a certain time frame should undergo a comprehensive approach that includes: medical examination, counseling, and legal consultation.
Medical examination is crucial for the immediate health needs of the survivor. It may include treatment of physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and the provision of emergency contraception. Additionally, forensic evidence collection can be a part of the medical examination if done within an appropriate timeframe after the assault.
Counseling provides the psychological support needed to address the trauma of sexual assault. A focus on safety and psychological safety is critical, as trauma can have wide-ranging impacts on mental health, and experiencing sexual assault may increase risk for issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).