Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU)

The Rotunda Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) was established in 1985, and was the first dedicated unit of its kind in Europe. It has gained international recognition as a centre of excellence based on the extensive expertise that the unit holds in the medical and forensic treatment of those who have been subject to a sexual crime. The Rotunda Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) aims to provide holistic, responsive and patient-focused care to people age 14 years and older who have experienced a sexual assault or rape. Staff is trained to understand and appreciate the particular dynamics and sensitivities involved in responding to sexual violence. Care is provided by skilled, competent professionals in a respectful, non-judgmental and supportive manner.

The Staff

The Rotunda Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) has a core staff consisting of a clinical midwife manager, clinical midwife/nurse who are trained as Forensic Clinical Examiners and administrative support. Dr Nicola Maher is the clinical lead for the Rotunda SATU, and Professor Maeve Eogan is the clinical lead for the national SATU services. There is an on call team of forensic clinical examiners and support nurses/midwives who operate the out of hours service. Psychological support is provided by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) and Accompaniment Support Services for Children (ASSC). Patients have access to SATU services 24 hours a day 365 days a year to accommodate a prompt response. On rare occasions our unit is not available for use, and we may recommend referral to the SATU in Mullingar.

Location & Facilities

The SATU is located at the Rotunda Hospital in the Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU) building in the back car park. This is a self-contained unit with a private waiting room, office, forensic examination room, bathroom and kitchen. Signs for the SATU are located around the hospital. On the exterior of the EPU building and lobby, buzzers for the SATU can be used by patients to alert SATU staff to their arrival.