Assessing Trauma and Training Needs of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Across the United States

Much of the research on sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) focuses on program outcomes rather than the individual experiences of SANEs. The present research therefore sought to examine the individual experiences of SANEs regarding trauma, support, training needs, and challenges.

A national sample of SANEs participated in an online survey. In addition to a series of questions on work-related challenges and training needs, participants also completed the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (Bride et al., 2004) and the Professional Quality of Life Scale Stamm, 2009). Written survey responses were analyzed for themes regarding support services and training needs.

One hundred twelve SANEs from 24 U.S. states participated in our survey. Of these, 74 SANEs completed the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale, and 69 SANEs completed the Professional Quality of Life Scale. Overall, SANEs reported little secondary trauma or burnout. Furthermore, SANEs identified key areas in which additional training would be beneficial, including trial preparation, photography, and hands-on training.

Self-reported trauma and burnout findings are discussed in light of the high use of support services such as therapy, decompressing with other SANEs, and leisure activities. Our findings provide valuable information for supervisors and training providers of SANEs and have important implications for future SANE research.