Jennifer Green, a forensic nurse, speaking to our class about sexual trauma. Jen shared insights from her extensive experience with victims of rape and domestic violence.
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The spring 2019 Gender Media class voted to give donations to Hope House, a local domestic violence shelter. Thanks for participating in t...
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Our guest speaker, Avila alum Jennifer Green, spoke to the class about the neurobiology of patients who have experienced sexual trauma or ...
Jennifer’s speech about her work as a forensic nurse dealing with sexual abuse victims was more than interesting. I think the information she gave us as a class prepared us (on a very basic level) with how to respond to someone talking about a sexual abuse. She emphasized how important the first response is for the victim’s healing process and I think the point really hit home. I truly did not realize how deeply embedded rape culture is in our society before she told the story of the woman opening the door to her husband. I found it really clever that she has a sneaky way of getting the answer from a “why did you” question without saying those words, instead she asked “what would have happened if?” This keeps the victim from feeling like they are responsible for what happened but still gives them the opportunity to explain what they were thinking. In addition, I think everyone has probably heard about fight or flight but, I personally, never knew there are two other responses to threatening situations- freeze or submit.
ReplyDeleteAlyssa Winters
I found Jennifer's talk about her work to be very captivating. I learned so many things from listening to her. I found it shocking the numbers that were reported for the amount of rape victims that were male. It is definitely even crazier to think of how many of those were because of a female. I also enjoyed her explaining what to do when someone comes to me or someone else about the topic. I learned that the best thing to do is to first state that you believe them. Saying that has a complete impact on the victim and it is something that I surely won't forget. I also appreciated the way that she described the kits that they used and explained the laws and statutes of each state and how and why they differ. Another interesting thing that I learned from Jennifer is that DNA can be stored for a up to a month and can still be used to incriminate which is pretty amazing to see how far technology has come in the world of medicine. Overall, after hearing Jennifer talk about her work it opened my eyes to some preconceived notions that I had regarding rape culture and I enjoyed her in class and appreciated her.
ReplyDeleteScott Bower
ReplyDeleteJennifer Green’s session on her career field and duties as a forensic nurse were immensely insightful and valuable to me. There were a number of things that caught my attention, but her analysis of the difference between state laws especially interested me as someone who is pursuing a career as an attorney. I enjoyed listening to someone in that specific field talk about the direct effects that laws have on their work. Furthermore, I appreciate that she made the point of informing students that they have a say in these laws. Legislation without opposition from citizens makes it even easier to pass. Green’s breakdown of how trauma starts and it’s different manifestations was very informational and I learned a lot. For instance, I learned that trauma always starts with history and the amount of time that DNA can be effectively stored. The reality, is that students do not get conversations like this very often or ever. With that said, I found her presentation to be more practical than anything. That includes her descriptions and examples of traumatic signs and the process that our bodies use to cope with traumatic events. Other practical information was her advice for those who encounter people who have suffered trauma, such as avoiding asking the victim “why” questions because it gives the impression of doubt or blame. Very meaningful and effective session overall, I enjoyed hearing perspectives from a specialized field of service.
As a nursing major it was very interesting listening to Jennifer talk about what her job entails. Sexual abuse has become more prevalent in this day and age, and girls (sometimes guys) may not even realize that they are a victim. I thought it was very intriguing learning that even though we may think of how we would act in response to sexual abuse our brain may not follow through when experiencing it in the moment. According to her presentation, the brain does what is best for survival. I also found how Jennifer approaches victims in secluded rooms to be very important to the process of handling a victim of sexual abuse. Any sudden movements or even certain scents can give the victim flashbacks of their traumatic event. As a forensic nurse you would have to cater to the victim like Jennifer said in order to not stimulate anything from the victim to react. The triage system in emergency rooms really leaves sexual abuse victims out to dry because the triage nurse may not think that their situation is emergent when sometimes that is not the case. Sexual abuse victims can be coming in right after the event or sometimes months after because they afraid of judgement. These people need attention just like the rest even if there are no physical signs of anything wrong.
ReplyDeleteMatti Morgan
The speech by Jennifer Green was as much eye opening as it was saddening. Rape victims have already been through enough traumatizing experiences, and what they need is treatment that helps them recover from what they went through. As such, it is important to understand how to talk to them and interact with them in a way that does not make them feel like it was their fault that they were raped. People often ask what the person, especially a woman victim, was wearing at the time of the rape. This in a way seeks to justify what happened to the victim as her fault for wearing something that “attracted the rapist” while in fact it does not matter what she was wearing, she is still the victim. In addition, Green touched on the fact that people react to terrifying situations differently. While it is common that when someone is attacked they either flight or fight, there are those who just freeze and are unable to move in such situations. This is especially unsettling for the victim after the ordeal because they feel like they should have done more to prevent it from happening. It is, therefore, important to understand these factors when dealing with rape victims in order to help them heal from the traumatic event.
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ReplyDeleteI would like to start out by saying that the speech Jennifer gave us to class was awesome! I was totally engaged through the whole entire speech and she had my full attention. She gave out some really good information of what she does and the reason she does it. She didn't just give a speech she gave a speech that had enthusiasm and I could tell that she was proud of what she was doing, and she loves helping other people. She talked about a lot about statistics about here in Kansas City and what it is four different ratios and physical abuse. Which was very eye-opening. When she told us that there were only like 7 nurses like in Kansas City that brought my attention at the very beginning. The reason for that is I know that it's a very precise or nice be a well-trained job to become a nurse of what she does. I also really like the fact that Jennifer brought several different kits for rape kits and told us about all the laws that Kansas and Missouri have a difference in it was informative and really good information to know. Also, it was really good information for me myself for I am a residence Life assistant here at Avila University and she gave a lot of good information for me to help people in need if they have something happen to him. Jennifer speech was good, and I love sitting through the whole class listen to her Talk.
ReplyDeleteI found the information given to us to be very powerful and helpful. I did not know all of the different signs and triggers that someone who has been through sexual or domestic abuse and traumas would adapt. She spoke about the natural fight, flight, freeze, and submit reactions that one goes through in these types of situations. She spoke about the physical and verbal cues one might portray after a situation of abuse or trauma. She also discussed the importance of avoiding the "why" question and victim-blaming. I also respected that she pointed out that first impressions can make or break the outcome and direction the victim takes. The victim is most likely in a vulnerable position already, the experiences they face from the second they walk in to the hospital, to the second they leave, and even the way they are treated or spoken to by friends and family can change their entire outlook and either allow them to heal or lead them into depression. She discussed the importance of allowing the victim to choose whether or not they reported the situation to the police and she talked about the importance of allowing them the most freedom and control over their situation as possible.
ReplyDeleteAhmed Aljohani
ReplyDeleteJennifer’s speech show to me how a forensic nurses do an awesome job and how they deal with sexual abuse victims. I also learned from her presentation that men also get rape not only women and this was a new to me. I enjoyed hearing from her experience and how she deal with clients in the hospital and how patient you have to be, when she explained to us how the some clients are mean to them and how they can handle it. As a psychology major this speech did open my eyes to the ways I can deal with people in the work frame. This kind of job the best about it they will stay with client from A to Z they have always make sure you feel okay in the hospital and how they can help you and make you satisfied. I was surprised when she told us the client has the right to report the case and do not report it, before I thought when you be in a hospital they have to call the cops and this is not optional and it is up to the person.
Having Jennifer Green as a guest speaker was very fascinating. When talking about gender issues and trauma, nursing is not the career that would come to mind. I do my best to keep myself well educated and informed; thus, knew a lot of the things she was talking. However, I loved having the opportunity to hear her first-hand experiences and have the opportunity to view the kits in person. I, originally, was a psychology major so trauma response and manifestation was something I was aware of. But, when addressing trauma with a patient I never knew that you have to speak in terms of the big picture. It seems obvious that in order to understand the present you have to make conscious of the past. Although, when asking questions about present trauma it does appear so obvious to ask those types of questions or simply listening to what the victim has experienced in the past. I also found it interesting that when speaking to someone who has experienced trauma you are not supposed to ask “why” questions in an effort to make the victim feel like they are to blame or feel the trauma they experienced as valid and rational.
ReplyDeleteThe talk that Jenifer gave us was insightful and opened our minds to a new body of knowledge that we did not even know existed. First, she elaborated on the definition of trauma which made us realize that some of us could have serious problems that we do not know about or that we take lightly and might have serious implications. Jenifer equipped us with an important skill and that is identifying trauma. The explanation of how the brain works in distress or in the face of danger is another mind opener. She further taught us how to deal with rape victims and how to assist them which can really help someone because such people need deep psychological assistance after such a traumatic event. She brought to light various statistics that were alarming. This showed us how much the rape phenomena is ingrained in our society and is definitely something to worry about. What most of us definitely didn’t know is a large number of male rape victims. This information has helped us to see the whole situation as it is and no longer just assume that rape victimizes one gender.
ReplyDeleteJennifer equipped us with interrogation skills. How to speak to a rape victim without traumatizing them even more. Instead of asking blame questions ask hypothetical questions because they get the results and will not further harm the victim's mind. She also taught us about DNA and how it can be used as a very effective tool to catch rapists because it can be extracted from the victim even after a month. Overall Jennifer gave us a lot of information which I personally found useful. For instance the brain mechanism of responding to threatening situations. We now know how to respond to rape victims because the first response is most crucial for the victim. The speech was quite interesting and taught us a lot that we did not know and I feel adequately equipped should I ever deal with a rape victim.
SAUD ALOTAIBI
DeleteJennifer Green works as a forensic nurse. Because her profession is related to medical report making so she tells us about sexual abuses which are increasing day by day. It was shocking for me to know that most of the victims of sexual abuse are male. Further more shocking for me was these male were victims of sexual abuse because of females. She openly talks about the issue, its figures and facts. She tells that how she handles the sexual abuse victims which also guides us how to deal if it happens. Sexual victims need more attention than normal people. Our behavior should be positive to them which help them in healing what has happened to them. She gave an example of a husband and wife that they use good words like using “What would have happened” instead of “why did you”. I also love the way she presents the kits, explain of laws of different states and their difference. After all her lecture on sexual abuse and her experiences with the victims was very meaningful for us.
ReplyDeleteSilmin alghmadi
Jennifer Green is living evidence that it takes so much more than a college degree to be effective in a particular field. Her presentation was both objective and passionate in that she showed us what goes on in the neurobiology of a brain after a traumatic event has occurred. I was completely shocked to learn that each person has different response mechanism to help deal with trauma, even actions like laughing which may seem strange to a person who does not understand neurobiology. She took the presentation to another level when she explained to us different techniques she uses to appropriately serve a patient through her use of body language, tone, open-mindedness, etc. Though the presentation was only minutes long, it served a purpose that I am sure each of us there will take with us forever. Her use of both factual knowledge (shocking statistics) combined with her love for her career and patients made for a complete presentation that packed a punch. Jennifer even inspired me to check on a family member who suffered an assault but who had not spoken about it for months. After checking in on her and letting her know how loved and valuable she is, I was surprised to know my family member was relieved to have these words come from me. Jennifer Green has such a strong impact, probably beyond her imagination, and I was very glad to have had the opportunity to meet her.
ReplyDeleteJenifer green has did so much with her degree in her particular field. She was very passionate in her presentation. she showed us a lot about neurology in the brain after she went through a brutal event. as i seen peoples responses on how they did with trauma, it just help me get past my problems and it helped me find ways to get over them. she has a real purpose out here in the world and i admire her so much for what she is doing.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed Jennifer Green coming to our class and teacher us about what she does. Before her coming to speak to us I had no idea what a forensic nurse was. Now I think their job is very interesting. I learned a lot of information throughout her presentation. She is a lot different from other nurses that I know in the way of how she treats her patients. I feel that she is very aware of her patients feeling and needs and will do anything to make them feel comfortable.It is good to know that we still have people in the world like Jennifer. I never really know about what goes on in your brain after a traumatic event and about the fight or flight affect. I also thought the rape kits were interesting to learn about because I didn't even know that those were an option. I feel that her presentation was very informative and that she needs to be heard by more people because this is information that all women and even men need to hear. I believe that she loves her career and she values her patients, which is important for all nurses. I am thankful that I got to meet Jennifer and if I even have anything happen I would definitely give her a call.
ReplyDeleteCouldn't figure how to edit it but Paige Bunn wrote this comment
DeleteJennifer Green had a very interesting presentation on details and the job description of a forensic nurse. I alongside numerous people had no idea there was such thing as a forensic nurse, I personally thought nurses and paramedics were sort of the same thing but I was very wrong. I was completely shocked at the amount of schooling and training it takes to even be considered for the job. I was also interested in how she explained the different ways of handling cases of sexual or domestic abuse. When she gave the example with Aaron and how she was cooperative and allowed the victim to be in control of what was happening and was going to happen so that they feel comfortable and aren't traumatized again. She emphasized trust whenever working with victims and the amount of time she dedicates to a person is valuable to ensure that they are okay and receive the treatment and help they need. I really enjoyed Jennifer Green and appreciate her taking the time to come and talk to us.
ReplyDeleteTristan Askan
Avery Ralston
ReplyDeleteJennifer Green was a very interesting guest speaker and I learned many things from her. Something that was shocking to me was when she said that 23,000 people in Kansas City were turned down in shelter this past year. Also, hearing about all the triggers and trauma that someone who has been sexually assaulted experiences. That’s why these nurses are so vital when it comes to caring for people have experienced sexual assault. I didn’t know that an attempt at sexual assault is prosecuted the same as sexual assault. As a psychology major, it was interesting hearing about the neurobiology of trauma because it’s stuff that is talked about in all my psychology classes and so hearing this information from someone who is not in the psychology field is intriguing. The body responds in many different ways to trauma and the way people process it and hearing her talk about how to approach people who come into the hospital is so important. Respecting the no and giving empowerment to the people who have experienced assault can make a difference because the patient should feel safe from harm. It was also encouraging to know that St. Luke’s doesn’t make patients pay for rape kits, medicine and other treatment receive in this situation. Overall, it was interesting and very informative.
After listening to Jennifer Green's presentation I was shocked by everything she had went through to become a forensic nurse. The stories she shared were very interesting and intriguing which kept my attention the entire time! The thing that caught my attention the most was when she said how many men often come into the office and talk about how they were sexually assaulted. That is alarming because you wouldnt think that would be the problem with men but she brought us back to reality and made us realize that it is. The rape kit was something serious because who wouldve known they could possibly get the dna from someone up to a month after the sexual assault happening!
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I just want to thank you for letting us have this amazing experience with Jennifer Green! I personally learned a lot and she got my attention and I was amazed at how much forensic nurses go through. The rape kit was something I wasn’t expecting to see and it’s real serious and got my attention the most because of the ways they get the DNA from after the sexual assault happens. I also the way the forensic nurses use to get into their patients and how they take care of people and I appreciate that from them!
ReplyDeleteHesham Albadr
Jennifer’s presentation about being a forensic nurse and a dealing with sexually assault victims was very informative. I learned a lot about trauma and different crisis. Knowing that different events can cause someone to have emotional trauma because of a past event and it carry one with them. Also how not only does women get sexually assaulted but as well as men. In most cases a lot of people would just see women as assault victims but to hear how the men come forward also is an eye opener. Also the kit she showed and addressed what all someone has to do and go through to use the kit was very informative. And hearing how they can keep them for so long if the victims decides they want to use it.
ReplyDeleteEre’Shay W.
Hernán Pulido
ReplyDeleteSexual abuse
Today’s speaker Jennifer green who is a forensic nurse and has to deal mostly with sexual trauma and all the victims of sexual abuse. After hearing most of her speech I was impressed at many things she said. We all hear a lot about sexual abuse and it being a problem on today’s society, but we mostly think of sexual abuse as Men that abuse women. I was impressed to hear how many males are abused. Also listening to her talk about the kit, uses and how to act and react when a situation of sexual abuse comes up was very important.
After listening to her speech I was able to learn how to deal with people affected and harmed by sexual abuse, is important always listening to them and trusting what they are saying. As well as being able to refer them the right way and encouraging them to talk and address the issue instead of keeping the pain and not talking for fear of the outcome. We learned how technology now a days is able to clearly determine whether someone has been abused and the DNA of the person who abused the victim for a little over a month. That way making sure that there is enough proof to incriminate the aggressor.
I really enjoyed having Jen as a guest speaker because I never fully realized how much goes into helping someone through sexual abuse. It was fascinating to learn that even wording something a certain way could be a trigger for a victim. It makes so much sense to keep the maximum to 5 words like "you are safe now" and just keep repeating this. I also loved how she is so aware of everything she does for the victim and always tries to find ways to make them feel safe. I also never knew someone could get a rape kit and not tell law enforcement about it. I think this is amazing because it gives victims a choice in what they want to do and if they decide to follow through with the police, then they have their proof already. I think more people need to know about this and spread it to any friends or family that has been a victim of sexual abuse. This topic is so heavily psychology related and it would be very interesting to be taught more in the psychology major about sexual abuse and how to go about helping victims or just people in general with fixing little details such as not being above their eye level or standing too close. Overall this speech was great and I learned a lot!
ReplyDelete-Savanna Stevens