Forensic nurse / SANE: what it takes

THE ROLE

1. What a SANE does

• Cares for patients after sexual assaultWith trauma-informed, patient-centered care
• Offers forensic exams and evidence collectionOnly with the patient's consent
• Often works on callThrough hospitals or community programs

START HERE

2. Build your nursing foundation

• Get solid RN experience firstIAFN recommends at least 2 years
• ER, women's health and peds helpAssessment skills carry over
• Find your local SANE programAsk to learn how it works

Source: International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN).

TRAINING

3. SANE education

• A SANE course of at least 40 hoursFrom an accredited provider
• A clinical preceptorshipHands-on training with an experienced SANE
• Adult/adolescent or pediatricTraining is focused by population

Source: IAFN.

CERTIFICATION

4. SANE-A and SANE-P

• SANE-A: adults and adolescentsAt least 2 years as an RN
• SANE-P: pediatricsAt least 3 years as an RN
• 300 hours of SANE practiceWithin the past 3 years

Source: Commission for Forensic Nursing Certification, via IAFN. Requirements are reviewed yearly.

IS IT FOR YOU?

5. What the work asks of you

• Calm in hard momentsPatients need steady, kind care
• Strong boundaries and self-careThis work is heavy
• Comfort with on-call and courtYou may be asked to testify