Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE)

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. The SANE program provides response, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers the following options:

• Medical examination

• Forensic examination

• Expert testimony in a court of law, if requested by the court

• Supportive care and follow-up for victims

• Collection and storage of forensic evidence (up to six months) if the victim/survivor is unable or not ready to proceed with a police investigation immediately but would like to consider the option to do so later 

• Telephone response line for immediate sexual assault information and support

WEBSITE: http://www.nshealth.ca/service-details/Sexual%20Assault%20Nurse%20Examiner%20(SANE)%20Program 

Avalon Sexual Assault Centre - Halifax Regional Municipality:  24 hour response 902-425-0122

Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre: Guysborough, Antigonish, Pictou & Richmond Counties:  1-877-880-SANE (7263)

Every Woman’s Centre: Sydney and greater Cape Breton areas: 1-844-858-8036

Victoria Order of Nurses (VON): Cumberland, Colchester, East Hants and Eastern Shore areas: 1-833-757-SANE (7263)

Tri-County Women’s Centre: Digby, Yarmouth & Shelburne Counties:  1-833-577-SANE (7263)