Positions available to Registered Nurses who possess Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner certification involve providing specialized care to individuals who have experienced sexual assault or abuse. These nurses are trained to conduct forensic examinations, collect evidence, provide medical treatment, and offer emotional support to victims. An example of this role includes a hospital-based nurse examiner who works as part of a multidisciplinary team to respond to cases presenting in the emergency department.
The importance of these specialized nursing roles stems from the need to provide trauma-informed and evidence-based care to a vulnerable population. Benefits include improved patient outcomes, increased accuracy in forensic evidence collection, and enhanced collaboration with law enforcement and the legal system. Historically, the formalization of this nursing specialty has grown alongside increased awareness of sexual violence and the development of forensic nursing standards.
