Aspirus shines light on SANE services

WISCONSIN – As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Aspirus Health is shining a light on forensic nurses that coordinate a mobile team that supports Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) services across 12 hospitals in northcentral Wisconsin. 

In a release, Aspirus noted that access to specially trained forensic nurses can be limited in rural Wisconsin.

“We learned there were gaps in the system because there are only so many trained forensic nurses in this specialty,” said Amy Riegert, RN, Aspirus Forensic Nurse and SANE Coordinator. “This has allowed us to extend our reach, especially into rural communities.”

Aspirus said the mobile model creates a clear response process.

“When forensic support is needed, the emergency department contacts the nurse scheduled for availability,” Aspirus explained. “That nurse travels to the hospital to conduct the medical-forensic examination, collect evidence, complete documentation and provide patient-centered support. The structure allows emergency teams to remain focused on other critical patients while specialized care is delivered.”

“With more education that we are able to provide to the emergency departments, they are better equipped to know what to do and how to connect with us and respond,” Riegert stated.

Even as coordination strengthens across the region, patient care remains the priority, Aspirus added.

“The SANE program provides forensic care to patients who have undergone a violent traumatic event, such as sexual assault or nonfatal strangulation,” said Kari Rickert, RN, Aspirus Forensic Nurse. “My job is to ensure that we don’t re-traumatize the patient, which looks like offering them choices, letting them be in control and providing options for their care.”

For survivors seeking care, SANE services are available at Aspirus emergency departments across Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. Patients may present to any Aspirus emergency department, and staff will coordinate appropriate forensic nursing support.

“Regardless of location, survivors receive the same high-quality, patient-centered forensic services,” Aspirus said.

For more information about the Aspirus SANE program, visit aspirus.org/sexual-assault-treatment.