Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) are registered nurses who have completed specialized education and clinical preparation in the medical forensic care of the patient who has experienced sexual assault or abuse.
SANEs in North Dakota respond to all victims of sexual assault holistically and in a non-judgmental manner. They work to ensure all SANEs provide honest, patient-centered, care that includes completely collecting evidence with sensitivity while guaranteeing a judgement free experience, no matter the race, creed, culture, sex or gender of the patient.
The role of a SANE includes taking history from the victim for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment of health care concerns; conducting a complete physical assessment; performing a thorough genital exam; collecting and documenting any forensic evidence; providing appropriate information and referrals; working with the victim advocate and other SART members to assure coordinated service; and providing courtroom testimony when needed.
SANE services can include:
- Comprehensive physical examination
- Collection of evidence
- Forensic digital photography
- Injury documentation
- Preventative medications
- Testing and prophylactic treatment for STIs/HIV and pregnancy
- Crisis counseling, advocacy, and case management
- Other community referrals
Click here to see a full list of North Dakota hospitals that offer SANE exams.