Meet Gabrielle, a Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) based out of Moncton.
Gabrielle provides comprehensive care to individuals affected by violence, including sexual assault, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child and elder maltreatment.
FNEs prioritize informed consent at every stage of care, ensuring that patients are active participants in their care decisions. They provide clear information about patient rights and available options, such as the choice to report or not report. FNEs support patients by connecting them with resources such as counseling services and safe housing, and by engaging in collaborative safety planning tailored to their needs.
During an examination, FNEs ensure patients have the option to have a support person present. FNEs prioritize patient comfort by offering warm blankets, food, stress-relief items, and comfort kits throughout the examination process. Patients are encouraged to take breaks as needed, allowing the pace of the exam to align with their level of comfort. Patient privacy is maintained by limiting the presence of staff to only those essential to providing care.
Gabrielle and other FNEs are a part of weekly meetings that review cases of children and youth affected by sexual violence. During these meetings, they collaborate with social workers, the RCMP and Boreal Center members to ensure the client and family receive support.
“My role is to support, care for, and empower those who have been hurt by others. I am committed to helping people reclaim their power, fostering healing, and respecting their autonomy. As FNEs, we believe survivors, we listen, and we are here help,” said Gabrielle.
Join us in thanking Gabrielle and Horizon’s FNEs during Sexual Violence Awareness Month.
