Module 1: An introduction to non-fatal strangulation and suffocation in the NZ context

Introduction

Family violence, including intimate partner violence, affects the health of many people in New Zealand. Non-fatal strangulation and/or suffocation (NFSS) that occurs within intimate relationships is recognised internationally as a high-risk factor for future harm, including death.

Since 2018, New Zealand law states that NFSS can be recognised with a specific criminal charge, and a maximum penalty of seven years in jail. And, although victims may not necessarily have visible injuries, NZ Police acknowledge that a medical assessment is useful to:

• ensure the wellbeing of victim-survivors

• identify potential health consequences.

Doctors need to be aware of the symptoms and signs found in patients who present in primary and secondary care following non-fatal strangulation and/or suffocation. This course aims to inform and educate clinicians in the assessment, documentation and care of those patients.

Course objectives

The course aims to:

• raise awareness of non-fatal strangulation and/or suffocation

• improve the understanding of injuries and basic injury description

• develop a standard approach to patient evaluation, resulting in better-quality clinical notes

• support the creation of a factual, medico-legal report for a doctor writing as a professional (not expert) witness

• improve knowledge, enable better care, and potentially reduce the risk of serious after effects for the patient.

Estimated time required: 1-2 hours.