Marshall University logo
Common Search Terms:
admissions, apply now, online learning, request information, schedule of courses, academic calendar, bert, registrar, library, human resources, housing, hr, work order, registration, jobs, mubert
School of Nursing

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program

Forensic Nurse Training Program for SANE

The Forensic Nurse Training Program for SANE Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner training at Marshall University (MU) is for Registered Nurses (RNs) passionate about the care of sexual assault survivors and interested in training to perform forensic exams. The program will provide RNs and APRNs with the required didactic and clinical training to work as an adult/adolescent SANE.

In Fall 2024, Professor Dr. Rebecca Appleton and Professor Dr. Nancy Elkins at Marshall University, secured a three year, 1.5 million dollar, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grant focused on increasing the number of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Advanced Practice (APRNs) trained and certified as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) in rural and underserved populations. This program aims to provide SANE training for registered nurses on specialized medical care, forensic examinations, and emotional support to survivors of sexual assault within our local community and the broader rural area of WV.

Contact SANE Program DIrector Dr. Keeley Bowman

Why complete the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program?

Grant Funding Available

The program includes online coursework, skills labs, and preceptorship, aiming to increase the number of SANE-certified nurses to better serve survivors of sexual assault in the region. Thanks to this grant, we can provide tuition support and certification fees for RNs willing to serve as a SANE in rural or medically underserved areas.

Positively Impact the Lives of Sexual Assault Survivors

By increasing the number of available SANE nurses and IAFN SANE-A certified nurses, we can greatly improve the quality of care and outcomes for sexual assault survivors. When a SANE trained nurse is not available, forensic exams are often completed by a non-SANE-trained health care provider following a checklist in the sexual assault kit. This practice can affect patients’ long-term mental and physical health and may jeopardize legal proceedings if not done correctly.

Key Aspects of the MU SANE Program:

  • Training Components: Combines didactic (online) courses and hands-on two day training. This educational training will follow the International Association of Forensic Nurses guidelines for Adolescent/Adult Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). Prior to the two-day in-person training, each participant must complete a 24 hour online, self-study module.
  • Target Audience: Registered Nurses (RNs) looking to specialize as SANE examiners. (prefer RN’s have 2 years of nursing practice)
  • Funding & Support: The program benefits from HRSA grant that help cover educational costs and certification fees, with support for nurses in underserved areas. (Students can receive up to $3,000 if they complete all 3 parts of the micro-credential.)
  • Certification: Prepares nurses for the SANE-A (Adult/Adolescent) certification exams through the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN)

To Get Involved/Learn More: