In cases of severe physical trauma, myriad medical services may be needed to chart a recovery plan for the client. Since, this may be the very first interaction with this type of medical situation, understanding the general process can reduce the anxiety of both the caregivers and client.

General points to remember:

–     Try to obtain formal written reports from each medical professional that evaluates the client, so that other specialists may have a more comprehensive medical history and benefit the client in the long term.

–     Get copies of X Ray’s , CT scans and such for your records. This would also assist other specialist  in proper diagnosis.

–     Try to get an understanding and record when possible, the qualifications your medical professionals,  as having experience with handling  victims of violent crime is an asset.

–     If further specialist treatment or surgery is anticipated, try to gather written quotations. This proves quite resourceful when having to seek sponsorship for pricey treatments.

–      Clients should be given extra consideration when performing certain medical procedures and should make every effort to access adequate psychological preparation before hand.   Feel free to request modification of techniques to reduce anxiety, such as:  allowing the client to see the testing equipment; explaining potentially startling or uncomfortable aspects of equipment and procedure; and where possible have a trusted friend stay throughout the procedure. Review with primary physician if procedural sedation can be considered,as a last alternative.

Please note that each case is different and this information is only a guide and priority should be given to the instructions of your attending physician or specialist.