The SANE staff will also prepare arape kitin which they can collect evidence of the assault.
This article explains what a SANE exam entails and who performs the exam.
What to Do After a Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can affect anyone.
FS Productions / Getty Images
There are steps you’re free to take to help preserve evidence.
You’ll need to avoid disturbing evidence and seek care right away.
Advances in the forensic science continue to make it possible.
You may be offeredpost-exposureprophylaxis(preventive care) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
If relevant, you may also be offeredemergency contraception.
An exam is still important and available.
What Happens During a SANE Exam?
A SANE exam normally has a number of steps.
Be sure to ask about specific rules in your community.
If you have an exam, it will likely take at least a few hours.
The exam itself takes a significant amount of time.
In addition, they may need to call an examiner and/or an advocate who is not on site.
This requires a medical evaluation and physical examination from other healthcare providers.
Swabs, like those used forCOVID-19 testsorPAP testscreenings, may be used to collect DNA at these sites.
The nurse may also comb your hair and pubic hair to collect samples and take blood or urine samples.
If you allow it, the examiner may also take pieces of your clothing, including your underwear.
Finally, after the evidence is collected, you’ll receive any non-urgent medical care.
This may include treatments to reduce your STI or pregnancy risk, if relevant.
A follow-up visit may be scheduled or you may be referred for help to an agency in your community.
They help to determine if evidence might be found on your body unrelated to the assault.
Who Can Perform a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam?
They can help you find sexual assault forensic exams and support resources.
After a SANE exam, it’s recommended that you receive follow-up care.
You are responsible for the cost of follow-up care.
Other healthcare providers also may receive SAFE or SAE training to complete the exams.
You also may be referred for support services and scheduled for follow-up care.
Maine Department of Health and Human Services.Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) Program.
2023 Aug;26(4):495-501. doi: 10.1007/s00737-023-01335-y.
RAINN.What is a sexual assault forensic exam?
RAINN.The Importance of DNA in Sexual Assault Cases.
2023 Dec;29(15-16):3101-3125. doi:10.1177/10778012231200479.
RAINN.Reporting to law enforcement.
2024 Jan 17;100(1):45-47. doi: 10.1136/sextrans-2023-055944.
Stanford University.Forensic Evidence Collection (i.e.
SAFE, SART Exam, Rape Kits).
International Association of Forensic Nurses.Frequently Asked Questions (Certifications).
