Working with SANE nurses.
Promote SANE nurses as supporters for victims/survivors. Ideally, this would happen in the context of a formal partnership with SANE nurses, which includes 24/7 availability of SANE nurse services on campus.
SANE nurses are highly qualified to support victims/survivors of sexual violence, including extensive training in Trauma Informed Practice. Furthermore, students who worry that universities may be motivated to protect their reputations or bottom lines more than the wellbeing of victims/survivors may be reassured by the arms-length relationship between SANE nurses and the university. For SANE nurses who may work with student survivors, we recommend offering anti-racist and cultural competency training that explores how different cultural beliefs and attitudes influence how we think about and experience sexual violence, and policies against sexual violence.
Community Resources
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Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) ProgramAs stated at this link, "Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) are registered nurses who have completed specialized education and clinical preparation in medical forensic care for patients who have experienced sexual assault or abuse. Delivered through contracted service providers, on-call SANE nurses provide immediate care within seven days of a sexual assault to people who would like supportive care, including medical attention, information about resources, as well as the option to have forensic evidence collected." This webpage provides information about the SANE program in Nova Scotia, including how to access services.