North Dakota Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) Best Practice Guidelines

August 14, 2024

Sexual Violence

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. The role of a SANE includes taking a 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.

The mission of the State SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) Coordinator office is to ensure the SANEs of North Dakota respond to all victims of sexual assault holistically and in a non-judgmental manner. Also to ensure all SANEs provide honest, patient-centered care that includes, competently collecting evidence with sensitivity, no matter the race, creed, culture, or sex of the patient.

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Thousands of North Dakotans experience domestic and sexual violence each year. But together, we can change that. By giving to NDDSVC, you’re helping us prevent future violence and providing life-saving resources to North Dakota communities.

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If you are in an unsafe or abusive situation, there are 18 domestic violence/sexual assault (DV/SA) victim advocacy centers across North Dakota that can help you navigate your options and stay safe. Each center is staffed with professionals who can help you with safety planning, finding shelter, obtaining a protection order, and more.

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NDDSVC does not provide direct services to victims and survivors.
Contact a DV/SA advocacy center near you if you are looking for support. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.