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SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examination)
The SANE program cares for men, women, and children who are the victims of
sexual assault. Nurse examiners have been trained to collect medical and legal
evidence, while being sensitive to your needs in care and recovery. The nurse
examiner will not make you do anything you do not want to do and will support
your need to regain control of your life.
Advantages of SANE For You
- Nurse examiners are knowledgeable and can answer your questions.
- During the exam you will be given a general physical assessment for trauma
including examined for injuries, fingernail scrapings, foreign hair samples,
semen, and other body fluids, etc. (any evidence found will help make a
stronger court case).
- They can anticipate many of your fears and concerns, and help you sort out
what to do after an assault, including the threat of disease or pregnancy.
- Nurse examiners are there to assist you in reviewing your options, but
will respect your decisions.
- Although the exam and evidence collection are intrusive, SANE makes every
effort to perform them in a non-threatening, and sensitive way.
- Nurse examiners are specially trained to collect evidence.
- They can help put you in contact with support services.
What Happens During an Examination?
- See a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner within 72 of a sexual assault (exams
can be performed after 72 hours in some cases).
- You will need to tell the nurse examiner what happened, and determine
whether or not you would like the police to be called. Whatever your
decision, the nurse examiner will respect it.
- You will decide who can be in the room during the exam. You may decide to
call a sexual assault advocate.
- The exam may be difficult for you to deal with, and you can take breaks if
you choose.
- The nurse examiner will provide first aid for your physical injuries.
- They will also collect any evidence they can find that proves there was
contact between you and the assailant.
How Is the Examination Paid For?
Crime Victim Compensation (CVC) Funds may be available for you if:
- you do not have insurance or medical assistance,
- you report the crime to the police, and
- you fill out a CVC form properly.
SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Exam) Funds may be available if:
- you do not have insurance or medical assistance, or
- you have insurance, but don’t want to use it for privacy reasons, and
- you decide not to report the assault to police.
- Insurance or Medical Assistance you already have.
The nurse examiner will provide you with information on Crime Victim
Compensation. If your case goes to court, the nurse examiner can testify as a
factual witness on your behalf.
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THE BRIDGE