Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Education Needs in Texas

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: As with many areas of the nation, Texas lacks a robust sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) workforce. A program in Texas offers courses to educate and expand SANE skills to better provide trauma-informed care to vulnerable populations. Methods: A survey to stakeholders of a SANE educational program, as part of a planned program evaluation, elicited not only barriers to providing care but also specific program needs to better expand access to sexual assault and domestic violence medical forensic examinations in Texas. Results: In January 2022, a total of 40 stakeholders, all registered nurses in the state of Texas, provided vital information on their current program. Analysis of written survey responses provided themes regarding barriers to providing SANE care and suggestions for expanded education. Discussion: The survey provided valuable feedback and comments on the perceptions of the current SANE program. Written responses offered direction for additional learning desires of SANEs associated with the program as well as areas for the program to expand to meet the needs of the learners. This stakeholder guidance has implications beyond this one SANE education program to enhance and expand other programs based on learner needs.