Sexual Assault Nurse Examinations

The Sexual Assault Nurse Examination (SANE) program is a 24/7 comprehensive program that provides support and care to survivors of sexual assault of all ages. The medical staff and advocates are specially trained in providing holistic care that addresses both the physical and psychological needs that follow an assault. The examination is done in a manner that gives power and control back to the survivor. The survivor can choose as few or as many of our services as they wish.

A SANE exam by specially trained medical providers is essential from both a legal and a personal standpoint because it helps preserve evidence while also facilitating a survivor’s healing.

The compassionate care provided by our medical providers can help a survivor through the trying times that follow an assault and reduce the adverse effects on their health & well-being from the assault. The focus is on identifying and treating injuries as well as prevention of sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy. The survivor also has the option of having physical evidence collected while the exam is being done to assist in the legal process.

When individuals experience sexual assault, they may sustain more than physical injuries - trauma also affects short and long-term mental health. The sexual assault advocate is by the survivor’s side for the entire process from start to finish. They offer support, explain the process, and assist the survivor on the road to healing. The sexual assault advocate also provides continued support and helps with navigating the legal system long after the SANE examination is complete.

All survivors deserve to have control and feel safe in their bodies. I am grateful to get to support the SANE program and help survivors regain their sense of control & safety.

-LorieLadziak-Thivierge, RN, BSN, SANE-A