Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program

If you are or have been a victim of sexual or domestic violence and want support and a possible forensic examination: Please go to the Emergency Department at one of our five designated hospitals and ask for the SANE nurse.

You do not have to explain the reason for your hospital visit; just ask to see the SANE nurse.

You are NOT required to report the assault to police to receive the services of a SANE nurse.

No police officer is present during the forensic examination.

The SANE program will provide you with many options. With your consent, the SANE nurse will:

Ask you questions about the assault.
Perform a physical examination to check for any injuries.
Conduct screening tests to identify any concerns about sexually-transmitted or blood-borne infections (STBBIs).
Examine and provide you with medical treatment, and possibly offer medication to prevent a pregnancy (if appropriate) and/or STBBIs.
Refer you to specialized services if needed.
Offer to collect samples for forensic purposes. Samples may be submitted to the police OR be kept for six months if you do not wish to report the assault immediately.

You may refuse certain parts of the examination and change your mind at any time.

You are the one who decides how to proceed.

The SANE nurse will respect and support your choices.

How to access this service

Please go to the Emergency Department at one of our designated hospitals (listed below) and ask to see the SANE nurse.

Who can receive SANE services?

Adults, adolescents and children of all genders who are victims of sexual violence
Adults and adolescents of all genders who are victims of domestic violence

SANE Program Objectives

Provide access to the care and specialized services of a SANE nurse in a reasonable time frame and appropriate geographic location
Promote recovery and healing
Increase the conviction rate of perpetrators
Obtain quality DNA samples
Maximize the options available to victims/survivors
Ensure access to victim services
Increase public awareness about the importance of healthy relationships.