A sexual assault forensic exam (SAFE) is a victim-centered, trauma-informed, head-to-toe physical examination to collect evidence from your body and clothes after a sexual assault. SAFEs are conducted by trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs).

SANEs have specialized training in medical forensic assessments and collect potential forensic evidence to support survivors of violence and/or maltreatment.

As a fully-mobile SANE, we have the ability to meet the victim-survivor where they are rather than requiring them to travel to a hospital setting.

Mobile SANEs are more comfortable and calming compared to the emergency room which has fluorescent lighting, loud noises, and lots of people.

Additionally, being fully mobile allows us and the survivors as much time as needed to conduct the exam at the survivor’s pace rather than feeling rushed in a clinic or hospital setting.

NVIFN offers two exam options:

Acute exams: A nurse and advocate respond to the survivor’s location or meet at NVIFN’s office. This is dependent on comfort and ease for survivors.

Non-acute exams: This type of exam is scheduled for either our office or a location that works for the survivor. Both the nurse and advocate will respond.

A forensic interview is a conversation that is led by a forensically trained interviewer to offer a recorded account of what happened to the survivor in their own words.

A forensic interviewer provides a trauma-informed experience to help the survivor feel safe and empowered. The alternative is for a law enforcement officer to conduct the interview at a police department which can be intimidating for survivors.