Final answer:
First responders to sexual assault must ensure the survivor's safety, provide compassionate support, secure the scene, and preserve evidence. They should arrange medical care, document the incident, and respect the survivor's rights. Training includes understanding the complexities, severity of the situation, and potential traumatic brain injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The duties of the first responder to a sexual assault incident are critical and must be approached with sensitivity and professionalism. First responders must ensure the immediate safety of the survivor and secure the scene. They must provide compassionate support, being careful not to cause further trauma, and arrange for immediate medical care if necessary. This often includes transporting the survivor to a hospital for a forensic examination and providing information on resources like counselors or advocates specialized in handling such sensitive situations.
Next, it's important for the first responder to preserve evidence, which might involve instructing the survivor not to wash or change clothing. In parallel, they will need to document the incident thoroughly and accurately for legal purposes. They must respect the survivor's rights and choices throughout the process, including their decision on whether to report the incident to law enforcement. Additionally, they might be required to provide testimony if the case goes to trial.
Training for first responders also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the symptoms of traumatic brain injury, as highlighted in the work 'Working with Survivors of Gender-Based Violence'. Ultimately, the most important duty is to respond to the survivor with an understanding of the complexity and severity of the situation, while maintaining their humanity and dignity at the forefront.