Recognizing and Addressing the Needs of Sex Trafficking Victims

Abstract

Sex trafficking is a global crime enslaving persons of all ages and across all borders, and providers can be challenged to locate and recognize victims. Trafficked victims present with varied and complex healthcare needs requiring unique and tailored interventions. This investigative project sought to situate the existing literature with experiences described by professionals who work with trafficking survivors. Findings from the report indicate that many survivors report seeking care and receiving treatment from nurses while trafficked yet failing to be identified by nurses or other healthcare providers as a trafficking victim. This article addresses the scope of sex trafficking, indicators used to recognize victims of sex trafficking, the critical need for nursing to be knowledgeable of sex trafficking, and concludes with a discussion of nurses’ responsibility to address victims’ diverse needs.