Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Services
Branch House’s staff of specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) conduct forensic evidence collection and provide post-assault medical care to victims of sexual assault. Branch House provides SANE services in Sullivan County to patients 13 & older, and in Washington County to patients 18 & older.
24/7 Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline
423-574-7233
Press 1 to speak with a sexual assault advocate
Press 2 to arrange a sexual assault forensic exam
All Services Are Free & Confidential
Insurance is never billed and patients are never charged.
Quality Care
Branch House SANEs have received specialized education and training in trauma-informed care and proper evidence collection.
Advocacy & Support
Frontier Health sexual assault advocates provide court advocacy, case management, resource referals, and support throughout the process.
Resource Coordination
Branch House can provide a range of free resources such as transportation, emergency shelter, and clothing. We also offer on-going mental health services such as counseling and support groups.
What is Sexual Assault Forensic Exam?
A sexual assault forensic exam is conducted by specially trained RN’s called SANEs (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner). The purpose of a SANE exam is to detect post-assault injuries, provide appropriate medical care, and collect DNA evidence. Sexual assault exams can be performed up to 7 days following a sexual assault.
What To Expect
You are in control throughout the exam process. You can decline any aspect of the exam, and you do not have to report to law enforcement if you choose not to.
Assault Information
The SANE will ask you to provide information about the assault in order to determine what evidence should be collected.
Medical Care
The SANE will conduct a head-to-toe physical exam to check for injuries.
Evidence Collection
The SANE will collect DNA evidence and document any assault-related injuries observed.
Treatment
You will be offered medication for the prevention of certain sexually transmitted infections and emergency contraception if pregnancy is a concern.
For more information and details about what to expect from a sexual assault exam, visit the Tennessee Sexual Assault Help website by clicking the button below.
