Recommended Citation
Zavala B, Galera K, Jackson N. The benefits of SANE vs non-SANE care. Quality Improvement poster presented at Nursing Passion: Re-Igniting the Art & Science, Advocate Aurora Health Nursing & Research Conference 2022; November 9, 2022; virtual.
Presentation Notes
Quality Improvement poster presented at Nursing Passion: Re-Igniting the Art & Science, Advocate Aurora Health Nursing & Research Conference 2022; November 9, 2022; virtual.
Abstract
Background: The SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) versus non-SANE medical providers improve the prosecution of sexual assault cases by providing quality forensic exams and expert testimony. In 2021, it was identified that Advocate Trinity had only 1 SANE certified nurse.
Local problem: Due to an increase of sexual assault cases, there are not enough properly SANEs to provide 24/7 emergency department coverage. Our goal is to increase the number of SANE-A and SANE prepared nurses by 20%, which equates to 7 nurses, by the end of 2022.
Method: We sent 5 nurses to SANE-A and SANE training. The training to become a SANE is extensive and requires commitment on the part of the nurse. Initially, it includes a 40-hour virtual didactic course through the Illinois Attorney General’s Office. Next, an introduction to the forensic course includes an 8 hour in-person class which reviews Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act (SASETA) in Illinois which focuses on forensic order sets, evidence collection techniques, chain of custody, and photography. Additionally, there is a SANE simulation, 4 hour in-person class to practice medical forensic examination and evidence collection. Thereafter, forensics fundamentals are required which entails the nurse to be given a sexual assault kit to perform the exam. The state of Illinois also requires 15 speculum examinations, 2 medical forensic examinations, summary of entry level adult/adolescent assessment workbook, and a mock exam.
Results/Conclusion: Two nurses are SANE certified, and three nurses are SANE trained and completing necessary steps to be SANE certified.
Implications for practice: When SANE certified nurses are properly trained and educated, they provide a service that is sensitive to the needs of the patient. Higher rates of prosecution were noted when a SANE certified provider was utilized to performed evidence collection, maintained chain of custody, and had detailed documentation. SANEs are considered best practice.
Document Type
Poster
Affiliations
Advocate Aurora Health Trinity Hospital