Introduction
The SANE exam stands for sexual assault nurse examiner exam. It generally refers to healthcare professionals rather than a specific examination. It is also referred to as a forensic nurse examiner, where healthcare professionals specialize in supporting and nursing the victims of sexual assault. These healthcare providers endure specialized education and training to administer emotional support and comprehensive medical care for sexual assault survivors. In addition, they are involved in forensic evidence collection.
What Is Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Exam?
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) is the specified qualification for forensic nurses for specialized training to care for and conduct evidentiary examinations for the victims of sexual assault and rape. So, they undergo special education and training in the psychological, medical, and forensic examination of the survivor. They also collect forensic evidence in addition to performing examinations.
Who Performs Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Exam?
A sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) performs the SANE exam. The SANE nurses complete at least 40 hours of educational classes with about 40 to 96 hours of clinical training, particularly hands-on experience, followed by certification. The International Association of Forensic Nursing (IAFN) put forth significant criteria for the SANE.
What Is the Role of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE)?
Sexual assault nurse examiners are crucial in the relief and response to sexual assault. The examiner's pivotal roles, responsibilities, and contributions include the following.
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SANE provides specialized and tailored medical care to survivors of sexual assault.
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SANE addresses the emotional, physical, and psychological concerns of the victim.
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They are trained and experienced in collecting, analyzing, and preserving forensic evidence suspected of sexual assault.
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They also provide non - judgemental and empathetic support to the sexual assault survivors throughout this exam.
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They document and perpetuate forensic evidence collection for legal use.
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They answer any question that the victim asks during the process.
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SANEs associate with prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, and other healthcare providers involved in the care and support of sexual assault survivors.
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Finally, yet importantly, the sexual assault nurse examiners ensure that sexual assault survivors receive appropriate and specialized care.
How to Prepare for a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Exam?
Generally, a SANE exam is performed within 72 hours of the sexual assault. This is because DNA evidence would be preserved easily. But one can still have a request for the SANE exam even if it crosses 72 hours. Other varied types of examination could be helpful in the latter stages.
The survivors of sexual assault normally go away with everything they need to eliminate the experience. However, it is essential to know that doing such things could reduce the possibility of stable and appropriate punishment evidence. The health experts from SANE suggest the following daily activities before going for an exam.
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Not to take a bath or shower.
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Avoid using the toilet.
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Avoid changing clothes.
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Not to comb hair.
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Avoid cleaning the area of assault.
What Happens During the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Exam?
The primary focus is on the support, care, and well-being of the survivors of sexual violence. The SANE exam involves various steps, but the primary phase is treating injuries and other concerns.
Here are the steps that are generally included in the SANE exam.
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Consent and Relief: First, the sexual assault nurse examiner explains the process and procedures to the survivor. Then, SANE acquires consent from the survivor before proceeding further. They get to know the survivor to prioritize their wishes, comfort, and well-being in all respects of the process, ensuring appropriate support.
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Medical History: Examining assault and survival is a pivotal part of the SANE exam. So, the SANE directs an interview to collect information regarding the injury, assault, violence, and medical history of the survivor. This information could be helpful for SANE to conduct the whole approach, ensuring the proper provision of care.
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Physical Examination: The SANE does a thorough physical examination. This examination includes documentation of injuries, assessment of pain, and collection of samples. Moreover, physical examination primarily involves a complete assessment from head to toe. SANE documents every injury, trauma, sign, and physical finding conscientiously with their site and severity.
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Forensic Evidence Collection: The SANE exam is also known for forensic evidence collection. So, they collect forensic evidence, including the swab, clothing, accessories, and other suspected findings. They pack and secure the collected evidence with labeling for the next analysis. These collections can also help with the investigation and legal action of the assault.
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Photographs and Validation: A comprehensive documentation of the evidence and the documentation findings is updated in the medical report. SANE might take photographs and record them in the documentation only with the survivor's consent.
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Supportive Measures: The SANE provides supportive measures throughout the process. They provide emotional support and care right from the first day of the exam. SANE also answers every question that the survivor asks. Moreover, they contribute information regarding the concerns, follow-up care, support services, counseling, and treatment available to the survivors.
What Are the Benefits of the SANE Exam?
The SANE exam possesses several benefits including the following.
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It contributes to prompt medical and psychological care.
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It aids in the collection and preservation of the forensic evidence that is crucial for legal proceedings.
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It provides empowerment and support.
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SANE prioritizes confidentiality.
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It provides access to resources, information, and referrals.
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It offers a personalized and holistic approach, concerning every individual.
Conclusion
When a person is sexually assaulted or has undergone sexual violence, they are not generally offered a forensic or SANE exam. However, they are recommended to undergo the SANE exam for more awareness, support, and care. The sexual assault nurse examiner exam focuses on providing emotional support and care while examining and documenting the forensic findings. Every documentation is done with the consent of the survivor and their family. Therefore, the SANE exam is considered a crucial part of the response to victims and survivors of sexual assault. The injuries and concerns of the survivors are eventually addressed and treated before or during the sexual assault nurse examiner exam.
