Sexual Assault Evidence Kits in Canada: A Scoping Review

Sexual assault evidence kits (SAEKs) are a tool that may be used to collect medical and forensic evidence from sexual assault survivors. The SAEK is completed by healthcare providers, processed by forensic scientists, and used by police/prosecutors in the criminal justice system. Evidence from the United States has identified a myriad of factors that have led to unprocessed and unused SAEKs. However, research on the SAEK process in Canada is inconsistent and lacks a synthesis of the evidence. Thus, the purpose of this scoping review was to identify and synthesize the literature on SAEKs in Canada. Studies were eligible if they were Canadian peer-reviewed studies exploring collection, processing, use, or survivors' experiences with SAEKS; the sample included adult survivors of sexual assault, and articles were published in English/French. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines were followed. Databases were searched from 1979 through 2025, yielding 28 papers that met the inclusion criteria. Articles were synthesized narratively. Overall, there was a dearth of literature on the diverse components of SAEKs, though research on collection indicated that most sexual assault survivors who received care underwent the SAEK process. Healthcare providers often deviated from SAEK standards when collecting medical forensic evidence, and SAEKs were typically not predictive of police charging decisions. The presence of injuries and biological evidence was perceived as important to case outcomes. Moreover, while survivors were satisfied with the care they received, some found the SAEK process stressful. Additional research and policy are needed to ensure effective SAEK processes in Canada that support survivors and optimize evidence.