Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

What should be avoided immediately following suspected exposure to a date rape drug?

1. Informing the authorities

2. Preserving physical evidence through clean clothing

3. Taking a safe shower

4. Seeking medical attention

The correct answer is: Taking a safe shower

Taking a safe shower is something that should be avoided immediately following suspected exposure to a date rape drug because it can compromise physical evidence that may be crucial for law enforcement and medical professionals. Showering can wash away important traces of the drug from the skin, body fluids, and hair, which could hinder the investigation and potential prosecution of the perpetrator. Preserving physical evidence is vital in such situations, and when someone is suspected to have been drugged, it is important for them to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This allows healthcare providers to perform necessary tests and administer treatments while maintaining any physical evidence that may assist in legal proceedings. Informing the authorities promptly ensures that the incident is officially documented and investigated. In contrast, showering may seem like a personal safety measure, but it can inadvertently negate the chance to gather critical evidence.