The Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Centre is an emergency and follow-up program that provides 24/7 free and confidential services. The backbone of the program is a team of nurses, trained to provide specialized care including evidence collection, photographs, and medical care to reduce the effects of the trauma of assault.

 

Most importantly though, these nurses provide immediate emotional support at a time when their patients need it most.

 

Currently, there are 10 nurses on the team. Of those, eight are “casual”, which means they have other nursing jobs and work for the Treatment Centre part time. But there is nothing casual about their dedication. These nurses provide that round-the-clock coverage, so that a victim of sexual assault or domestic violence can get specialized care anytime they need it.

 

Carrie Breitsprecher is one of those casual nurses on the team. She said that initially she applied for the position because she wanted to do something new and different, and expand her nursing skills. Now, she says, she doesn’t want to leave.

 

“When you see patients and you see the effects you have on them… It’s all about empowering patients to be able to take control back when that’s been taken from them, and showing them they have the strength to do these things. That’s just really rewarding,” Breitsprecher said.

 

Leanna Wasky, another nurse with the program, said that for her it is seeing how much this service means to her patients, and how easy it is to make a difference.

 

“I’ve had so many people who apologize for getting you called in, and it’s the middle of the night. But that’s what we’re here for, you know?” Wasky said. “They’re such real people and they’re so vulnerable. You’re helping them through something that is very traumatic – and there they are, worried about you.”

 

“I really feel like we do make a difference,” Wasky said. “I really can’t imagine being a victim and sitting in the waiting room or a room with a nurse running in and out taking care of three other patients and not being able to give you that undivided attention. Especially if you’re doing a kit or an exam – we have the time, there’s no hurry. We could spend six hours with them if needed. You know, whatever they need.”

 

Developing trust with the client is a big part of the process said Melody McGregor, who provides follow-up care for the program as well as emergency coverage.

 

“You really have to feel honoured sometimes when people tell you the things that they tell you,” McGregor said. She said that as difficult as the situation is, the important thing is that there be somebody there to help.

 

“I feel bad sometimes that people have to tell me the things they tell me, because in normal circumstances they wouldn’t share,” McGregor said. “It’s an unburdening. Patients often tell me how grateful they are that the program exists”.

 

The Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Centre provides free, confidential, 24/7 emergency service. For more information about how the Treatment Centre can help you or someone you know, call directly at (807) 684-6751 or email mcgregom@tbh.net.