Overview
Introduction
Sexual assault care has two simultaneous aims: treat urgent injury and preserve whatever forensic evidence the survivor chooses to provide.
Sexual assault care has two simultaneous aims: treat urgent injury and preserve whatever forensic evidence the survivor chooses to provide. These aims are not equal when they compete; medical stabilization comes first. The SANE obtains informed, voluntary consent before the examination and explains its purpose, steps, potential risks, benefits, and the survivor's right to decline any component. Consent is specific and can change during the encounter. A patient may accept wound care or prophylaxis while declining photographs, swabs, or the evidence kit. Trauma-informed, objective care protects autonomy while a careful record preserves the clinical and forensic account.