- Immediate care: urgent injuries are treated first.
- Consent: the nurse explains each step and asks your permission. You can stop or skip anything.
- History: you’re asked what happened, so the nurse knows where to look for injuries and evidence.
- Exam and evidence collection: a head-to-toe exam; swabs, clothing or photographs may be collected with your consent.
- Medications: you may be offered emergency contraception, STI prevention and HIV prevention medicine (nPEP, best started within 72 hours).
- Follow-up: referrals for counseling, medical follow-up and advocacy.
The exam can take a few hours. You can bring a support person or ask for a trained advocate.
USA SANE Exam: Quick Facts
- Support line
- 800-656-HOPE (4673), 24/7
- Cost to survivor
- $0 for the forensic exam
- Police report required?
- No
- Evidence window
- Often up to ~120 hours (varies by state)
- Who performs it
- A SANE or trained forensic examiner
- Your rights
- Consent to each step; an advocate can be present
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.