The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports that approximately 1.2 million adults in Wisconsin have experienced sexual violence, equating to about one in three adult women and nearly one in five adult men. In response to this significant issue, Aspirus Stanley Hospital has launched a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program within its Emergency Department, becoming the ninth hospital under the Aspirus network to offer such services.

Nicole Dekan, Nursing Supervisor-Emergency Services at Aspirus Stanley Hospital, emphasized the importance of compassionate care for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. "The experience of sexual assault and domestic violence is deeply devastating for patients and their loved ones," Dekan stated. She highlighted that the SANE program aims to aid in beginning the healing process by providing specialized care.

The SANE exams can be conducted up to 120 hours following an assault. Upon arrival at an emergency department offering these services, patients are taken to a private environment where nurses conduct thorough assessments. This includes discussing the incident with consent, performing physical examinations, collecting evidence, assessing risks for pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and coordinating with a sexual assault advocate if necessary.

Dekan noted that trauma-informed care is central to their approach: "A patient has been through a traumatic event and therefore we give them their autonomy back during this exam." Patients can decide on the services they receive and set a pace comfortable for them.

Reporting assaults remains optional for patients over 18 years old. If they choose not to report immediately, collected evidence is sent to the Wisconsin State Crime Lab where it can be stored for up to ten years. Candice Aspen, a SANE nurse at Aspirus Stanley Hospital, explained that nurses assist those who wish to report assaults and are mandated reporters for patients under 18 years old.

Victoria Kramar, another SANE nurse at Aspirus Stanley Hospital, added that patients could track their evidence kits through law enforcement channels if desired.

Aspirus' SANE programs have expanded across Wisconsin as well as Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Northeast Minnesota. Survivors can seek care even if forensic exams are unavailable locally; preventative measures like emergency contraception and STI protection remain accessible.

Anne Sadowska, Chief Administrative Officer at Aspirus Stanley Hospital expressed pride in implementing this vital program: “We are proud to add this important program at Aspirus Stanley which excels in providing highly specialized clinical care in concert with the compassion needed under difficult circumstances.”

For further details on the Aspirus Sexual Assault Treatment program locations visit aspirus.org.