If you have been a victim of sexual assault, it’s not your fault. We know it may be hard to come to the hospital for an exam. Vanderbilt Health staffs a team of healthcare providers who are trained in the medical evaluation and care of all patients who experience a sexual assault, including specially trained nurses called Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) to support you during your visit. This information will help you know what to expect if you come here for an exam. We’re here for you.
Which of our locations is the best option?
• Patients age 18 and older may go to the Adult Hospital Emergency Department
• Patients age 17 or younger may go to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
• Patients of all ages will be seen at:
- Vanderbilt Bedford County Hospital
- Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital, and
- Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital.
• Patients age 15 and under at all locations will be connected with a specially-trained pediatric
nurse practitioner from OurKids to complete the forensic examination process.
* Vanderbilt University Student Patients have the added option of presenting to the
Vanderbilt University Student Health Center. For more on their available services,
please click here.
Care following sexual assault includes, but is not limited to the following:
Sexual assault forensic exam: This is an examination done for the purpose of gathering a medical history and history of the assault, identification and documentation of injuries, and collection of evidence in the event that involvement of law enforcement and the justice system is desired at the time of exam or any time in the future.
The exam is optional and other medical care may still be provided, even if the forensic exam is not completed. You may also choose to have portions of the exam but may choose to decline other portions of this exam. This examination can be conducted within 5 days following the assault, but we recommend earlier if possible. If it has been longer than 5 days since the assault, you may still be seen for additional medical care, however you may no longer be in the window for the forensic exam. The SANE nurse will talk through all options with you.
The exam may include:
• Your medical history
• History of the assault
• Head to toe exam of your body
• Evidence collection
• Photography
• Tests for STDs and pregnancy
• STD and pregnancy prevention
• Other labs
Prior to the exam, we recommend:
• Do not bathe or shower
• Bring clothing worn during the assault to the exam, in a paper bag if possible
- Items of clothing worn during the assault may be taken for evidence.
If possible, please bring a change of clothes.
• Avoid eating or drinking if possible
• It is okay and very common to receive an exam after eating, drinking, or changing clothes.
It is okay if you have done any or all of the above.
Cost of forensic exam:
By law, the state pays for the examination, labs, and medicines. If you get other treatment outside of what is covered by state payment, you might qualify for victim’s compensation. We can tell you about this program.
Medical Examination:
We recommend that anyone who has experienced an assault be evaluated by one of our medical providers, even if you choose not to have a sexual assault forensic exam done. Your provider can:
• Assess for any medical injuries or concerns you might have
• Evaluate your risk and offer STD/STI testing or prevention, including assessment for
HIV post-exposure prophylaxis
• Offer emergency contraception
• Offer support and connection with resources
Reporting to Law Enforcement:
The decision to talk to law enforcement is entirely up to you. You can get the exam without talking to the police. We are here to support you with whatever decision you make. We can help you with the reporting process if you choose. There will be times that state law requires that we report an assault to law enforcement. The SANE will discuss all of these options with you.
Advocates:
An advocate will be contacted to provide support and information during this process, and to help you decide what is the best plan for you. Advocate services are provided in partnership with the Sexual Assault Center or ProjectSAFE (Vanderbilt Students)
Strangulation, Intimate Partner Violence, and Human Trafficking:
Strangulation (choking) is dangerous. If you have experienced strangulation, or had pressure placed on your neck, chest, or other body part, or had your mouth or nose covered making it difficult for you to breathe, this can be life-threatening. Please proceed to the Emergency Department for medical evaluation. We’re here for you.
If you are in a relationship with a person who threatens or physically hurts you, or if you have been forced to have sexual activities that make you feel uncomfortable, we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, you can bring a support person with you. An advocate will also be provided for you, either virtually or in person.
What happens after the exam?
Your healthcare team will talk with you about safety plans, counseling services, legal services and police reports, and any other appointments you may need.