In recent months, the ThedaCare Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program has welcomed eight new SANE-trained nurses, bringing the team of nurses to 14 caregivers. The ThedaCare SANE program, supported by the ThedaCare Family of Foundations, was launched in 2016. SANE nurses are registered nurses who provide trauma-informed, compassionate care, as well as unbiased, objective collection of evidence and information for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, strangulation, child abuse and neglect and other crimes. Nurses follow appropriate forensic procedures to arm law enforcement, and the District Attorney’s Office with evidence if it becomes necessary for a court case. SANE nurses complete extensive training which can take up to six months or more to achieve.
“Our team members are dedicated to ensuring survivors have access to safe care and support when they need it most,” said Leah Eckhart RN, BSN, SANE-A, ThedaCare Clinical Program Specialist for the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program. “No two cases are the same. That is a reason our training is critical. The skills and care our nurses provide are irreplaceable. Once trained, SANE nurses require ongoing education and the opportunity to complete exams to remain competent and confident within the field.”
The additional nurses who joined the team are part of a growing need in the area for 24/7 aid to provide comprehensive care for survivors of sexual assault. In 2021, the ThedaCare SANE program provided care for a record number of people, caring for 125 patients. The year prior, they cared for 77 patients, noted Eckhart.
April is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The annual campaign aims to increase public awareness about sexual assault and educate communities and people about ways to help prevent sexual violence. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, about 1.2 million adults in Wisconsin have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime. That’s about 1 out of 3 adult women and almost 1 out of 5 adult men.
According to a recent Harvard study, evidence shows that rates of sexual violence increase during states of emergency, including natural disasters, active conflict and health crises.
“ThedaCare, success in this program is having increased capacity to serve patients in times of crisis,” said Eckhart. “Having quality, expert medical care from highly trained nurses in an organized SANE program, is vital to helping a person recover. We want to be sure each person receives care that helps restore their dignity and helps them begin the healing process.”
Eckhart said she also believes more people are coming forward because of referrals and local partnerships with ThedaCare’s SANE program. The community and organizations provide help and support, collectively working towards healing for survivors of sexual assault.
“We connect patients with an advocate so they’re never alone during this process,” said Eckhart. “An advocate is often involved, and can help the survivor navigate their healing journey. Advocates accompany the survivor to their medical forensic exam, as well as any additional law enforcement involvement. They also connect survivors with invaluable resources.
If you or someone you know needs care, contact the ThedaCare SANE program at 920.738.6300.
