CFN Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SANE) Practice

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

72 hours

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Obtain informed consent for the examination

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

A signed, dated receipt documenting transfer

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Perform the examination and store the kit per anonymous reporting protocol

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Body diagram/anogenital diagram with written description

Answer

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

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

CFN Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SANE) Practice