Practice Goals
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) are qualified nurses who are trained to gather forensic evidence in cases of rape and sexual assault (of both adults and children). SANEs may also be referred to as Forensic Nurse Examiners (FNEs) in countries such as the United Kingdom.
In SANE interventions, nurses conduct forensic evidence examinations (i.e., rape kits) of victims of rape or sexual assault, in lieu of forensic doctors. The goal is to provide safe and privacy-conscious treatment that coordinates health care with counseling services, forensic collection, law enforcement, and prosecution.
Services Provided
SANEs are responsible for conducting the forensic examinations; collecting and documenting the findings; and working with police and prosecutors to offer ongoing case consultation, including testifying as expert witnesses if the case goes to trial.
SANEs provide comprehensive psychological, medical, and forensic services to the victims. SANE interventions provide a number of different services, including crisis intervention and emotional support; injury detection and treatment; and health care (e.g., screening for sexually transmitted infections [STIs], prophylaxis or antibiotics for STIs, pregnancy testing, and emergency contraception). SANEs are also meant to spend more time with patients, show greater empathy, and help patients to foster a sense of control and empowerment.