Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SANE) Practice Flashcards

Which prophylactic medication is typically offered to sexual assault patients to prevent pregnancy?

Answer: Emergency contraception (levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate)

Emergency contraception such as levonorgestrel is offered as soon as possible after assault to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.

A SANE notices petechial hemorrhages on the soft palate during an oral exam. What does this finding most likely indicate?

Answer: Forced oral penetration or choking

Petechial hemorrhages on the soft palate are associated with forced oral penetration and are a significant forensic finding to document.

Which STI prophylaxis regimen is recommended for sexual assault patients per CDC guidelines?

Answer: Ceftriaxone + doxycycline + metronidazole

CDC guidelines recommend ceftriaxone for gonorrhea, doxycycline for chlamydia, and metronidazole for trichomoniasis as standard post-assault prophylaxis.

When swabbing for DNA evidence during a sexual assault exam, what is the correct technique to maximize recovery?

Answer: Use two swabs with a dry-wet technique

The two-swab technique (one wet, one dry) maximizes cellular material recovery by rehydrating dried secretions before absorbing them.

Which documentation element is MOST critical when photographing injuries during a sexual assault examination?

Answer: Including a measurement scale (ruler) in each photograph

A measurement scale in every photograph provides objective size reference essential for medical-legal interpretation of injury severity.

How should a SANE handle a disclosure of sexual assault by a pediatric patient during examination?

Answer: Document verbatim and make a mandatory child abuse report

SANEs are mandatory reporters; a child's disclosure requires immediate documentation of exact words used and a mandatory report to child protective services.