Establishing a Frontline Medical Response During Human Trafficking Recovery Operations

In the southeastern United States, sexual assault nurse examiners, registered nurses, and advanced practice registered nurses partnered with local, state, and federal law enforcement to provide comprehensive medical services to recovered persons of human trafficking. Medical services were provided in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigation's human trafficking recovery operations. Over five operations, 31 trafficked women were recovered and provided trauma-informed, holistic medical care. Medical services provided included pelvic exams, sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, cancer screenings, pregnancy testing, and contraception. Supportive services such as nourishment, comfort items, and initial counseling sessions were also offered.