Domestic Violence and Nonfatal Strangulation Assessment. Patricia M. Speck, DNSc, ARNP, APN, FNP-BC, DF-IAFN, FAAFS, DF-AFN, FAAN
inside the body. An MRI creates detailed images of organs and tissues. An MRA focuses more on the blood vessels than the tissue surrounding it. Usually, the MRA is done in conjunction with the MRI. MRAs evolved from MRIs to give doctors the ability to look at blood vessels more thoroughly.
—Plain radiographs: Images that identify bone and laryngotracheal injuries. Plain radiographs are not recommended for emergent evaluation of the vasculature in nonfatal strangulation (Appendix 7).
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*Data from Glass N, Laughon K, Campbell J, et al. Non-fatal strangulation is an important risk factor for homicide in women. J Emerg Med. 2008;35(3):329-335.
Section II
CASE STUDIES
OBJECTIVES
After completing the exercises presented in this chapter, the student will be able to:
1.Correctly identify the anatomy of strangulation patients.
2.Identify and document injuries based on an analysis of case photographs.
3.List at least 3 items of evidence that should be collected.
4.Discuss treatment and discharge instructions.