The Clinical Management of Children and Adolescents Who Have Experienced Sexual Violence: Technical Considerations for PEPFAR Programs

These Technical Considerations aim to serve as a guide for primary health providers on the appropriate care of children and adolescents who have experienced sexual violence and exploitation based on current, evidence-based practices. They are expected to inform the efforts of PEPFAR implementers and other partners engaged in the clinical care of children as well as in HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment to strengthen community-based responses to children who have experienced sexual violence and exploitation. They should be implemented in line with national guidelines in the provider’s country of practice.

This document is meant to be used by service providers in health care clinics, to include clinicians, behavioral scientists, social workers, pediatric care providers, child protection workers, HIV specialists, and child-focused clinical service providers. The focus is specifically on the clinical management of children who experience sexual violence and exploitation, but communities should also strive to develop comprehensive systems to respond to the needs and rights of these children.