I have a planned post that will go over my current and recent podcast list, but one episode in particular struck me and I wanted to share.
An episode of Unladylike discusses the role of the SANE - Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. This wasn't something I knew existed but is such an incredible role. They are RNs who have taken hefty additional coursework and are able to conduct forensic examinations following a sexual assault, trained to collect DNA and other forensic data in a patient and care centered manner, reducing retraumatizing the patient. They are also connected to and aware of the state and federal rights and guidelines, so they can provide next steps for law enforcement, mental and physical health, as well as patient's rights.
This is incredible...but there aren't many. The SANE who spoke to the program in in Georgia and she's one of just 25 in the entire state. I checked their website and there are none in VA emergency rooms that I saw.
I'm not sure how to create more of these other than to raise awareness. I'm going to look into lobbying the VA to require them in their hospitals, maybe via the DAV (what's the point of having a membership if I'm not using it?).
For more information, you can listen to the podcast and go to the International Association of Forensic Nurses to see what the closest hospital in your area with one is.
