Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SANE) Practice Flashcards

Within what time frame after a sexual assault is evidence collection considered most effective for DNA recovery?

Answer: 72 hours

Evidence collection is most effective within 72 hours of a sexual assault, though many protocols extend the window to 120 hours in some jurisdictions.

When conducting a sexual assault forensic examination, what should the SANE do FIRST after the patient's immediate medical needs are addressed?

Answer: Obtain informed consent for the examination

Informed consent must be obtained before beginning any forensic examination, as patients retain the right to consent or decline each component.

Which chain of custody action is required when transferring a sexual assault evidence kit to law enforcement?

Answer: A signed, dated receipt documenting transfer

A signed and dated receipt must be obtained at every transfer point to maintain an unbroken chain of custody admissible in court.

A sexual assault patient declines to report to police but wants a forensic examination. What is the appropriate SANE response?

Answer: Perform the examination and store the kit per anonymous reporting protocol

Many states allow anonymous or blind reporting where the kit is stored for a period, allowing the patient time to decide about reporting.

Which anatomical documentation tool is standard for recording injury patterns during a sexual assault examination?

Answer: Body diagram/anogenital diagram with written description

Standardized body diagrams with written descriptions accurately map injury location, type, and size for medical-legal documentation.

What is the purpose of the colposcope during a sexual assault forensic examination?

Answer: To magnify and photograph anogenital injuries for documentation

The colposcope provides magnification and photo documentation of subtle anogenital injuries that may not be visible to the naked eye.