ESCAPE
Safety Message

Hospital Accompaniment For Sexual Assault

ESCADV provides survivors of sexual assault accompaniment to the hospital for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exams. Accessible through ESCADV’s 24 Hour Hotline, (757) 787-1329, an advocate is available to provide in-person support to sexual assault survivors receiving a SANE exam at an area hospital. A SANE exam is a forensic exam performed by a certified, trained nurse that gathers evidence for future use by medical and legal personnel in the pursuit and investigation of a criminal case.
 
The advocate can provide support to the survivor and assist by explaining the options available. There is no legal requirement that a survivor of sexual assault take a SANE exam, nor is the exam required in order for a survivor to participate with law enforcement or criminal justice personnel in any criminal or legal proceedings. While survivors have the choice, the time immediately following a sexual assault can be very difficult and confusing, affecting a person’s ability to make decisions. A SANE exam can be a traumatic experience on top of the actual assault. Advocates are trained to provide survivors with support, companionship, information and referrals during this exceptionally painful time.
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