Training FNPs To Be SANE: Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Content in FNP Core Curriculum

As a women’s health nurse practitioner assigned to teach a course on primary care of women for family nurse practitioner (FNP) students, it is important that I educate graduate students about sexual assault. Compared to the general population, women living on or near college campuses are at greater risk for sexual assault and rape. Many women do not characterize their sexual victimizations as a crime for a number of reasons (e.g., embarrassment, lack of knowledge of the legal definition of rape and their legal rights, or else not wanting to identify an individual they know who victimized them as a rapist) or because they blame themselves for their sexual assault. If the sexual crime occurred while the women had engaged in illegal activities, such as underage drinking or use of illicit drugs, their fear of being expelled from school or denied scholarship monies, may also prevent reporting of such crimes. There are a number of barriers to reporting sexual assault; consequently, reports of sexual assault are low as is comprehensive care of post assault survivors in college towns and other communities. Educating and training FNP students about sexual assault and the roles and responsibilities of sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) and Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) will increase their knowledge and skills in sexual assault care but also provide an avenue for improved reporting. FNPs are often the first person victims of sexual assault will see for care. Incorporation of SANE training content into core FNP curriculum will allow FNPs to become confident and competent in the management of a victim of sexual assault and in the preservation of forensic evidence. Information on prophylactic treatment for sexually transmitted infections, emergency contraception and the need for follow-up care and counseling complements content on women’s health. Use of simulation technology for training and collection of forensic evidence can be standardized according to International Association of Forensic Nurses guidelines. An expansion of the FNP core curriculum to include aspects of SANE training will complement community efforts to decrease sexual crimes, improve the reporting of crimes, and facilitate comprehensive and compassionate care of victims.