The demand for specialized care for survivors of sexual assault is growing, but a critical shortage of trained medical professionals exists nationwide. Recognizing this gap, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing (VUSN) is expanding its efforts to equip more emergency and urgent care nurse practitioners with the skills to provide comprehensive care through a new program called ENPs-CARE. This initiative builds upon the existing Vanderbilt Nursing Education Program–Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (VEP-SANE) project, aiming to increase, diversify, and sustain the national SANE workforce. The program offers free training, including travel expenses, to eligible nurse practitioners, addressing a significant barrier to entry for many.
Currently, the United States has fewer than 2,150 certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) providers, even as over 53% of women and 29% of men experience some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime, according to data cited by Vanderbilt School of Nursing. The SANE program aims to bridge this critical gap by providing specialized training to nurse practitioners working in emergency or urgent care settings, focusing on holistic care for assault survivors, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Expanding SANE Training Opportunities
The ENPs-CARE program, formally titled “Advanced Nursing Education – Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program (T96),” received $1,500,000 in funding and is led by Jennifer Wilbeck, DNP, ACNP-BC, FNP-BC, ENP-C, FAANP, FAAN, at Vanderbilt University. The grant abstract details the program’s objectives, which include training 90 emergency nurse practitioners (ENPs) to become eligible for SANE-A (adult/adolescent) or SANE-P (pediatric/adolescent) certification by June 30, 2027. The program prioritizes benefiting underserved populations.
The training pathway consists of a 40-hour online course with continuing education credits, followed by an in-person clinical competency experience (CCE). The length of the CCE varies depending on the chosen pathway: three days for SANE-A and five days for SANE-P. Participants are reimbursed for travel costs, including lodging and transportation, and for the cost of the national certification exam, which currently costs over $425. Upcoming training sessions are scheduled for April 27-29 and October 20-22, 2026, at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in Nashville, Tennessee.
What is SANE Certification and Why is it Important?
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) are healthcare professionals specifically trained to provide compassionate and comprehensive medical care to survivors of sexual assault. This includes conducting forensic examinations, collecting evidence, and providing emotional support. SANE nurses play a crucial role in the medical-legal response to sexual assault, ensuring that survivors receive the care they need and that perpetrators are held accountable.
The two SANE certification pathways – SANE-A and SANE-P – allow nurse practitioners to specialize in caring for different patient populations. SANE-A certification focuses on adult and adolescent survivors, while SANE-P certification focuses on pediatric and adolescent survivors. The comprehensive training prepares nurse practitioners to handle the unique challenges and complexities of each population.
Addressing the Shortage in Rural and Underserved Areas
A key focus of the ENPs-CARE program is to address the shortage of SANE providers in rural and underserved areas. These communities often face significant barriers to accessing specialized care, including limited resources, geographic isolation, and cultural stigma. By training ENPs to provide SANE services in these areas, the program aims to improve access to care for vulnerable populations.
The program’s curriculum is designed to equip ENPs with the knowledge and skills to provide holistic care that is sensitive to the unique needs of survivors in rural and underserved communities. This includes addressing issues such as transportation, language barriers, and cultural beliefs.
Program Details and Eligibility
The ENPs-CARE program is specifically designed for nurse practitioners working in emergency or urgent care settings. The program offers a flexible learning format, with online courses that can be completed at the participant’s own pace. The in-person CCE provides hands-on experience and allows participants to develop their clinical skills under the guidance of experienced SANE instructors.
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is actively recruiting participants for the upcoming training sessions. Interested nurse practitioners can find more information and apply online at the VUSN website. The program represents a significant investment in the future of sexual assault care, and its success will depend on the commitment of healthcare professionals to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to survivors.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a healthcare training program and is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
If you or someone you grasp has experienced sexual assault, you are not alone. Resources are available to help. You can contact the RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE or visit their website at https://www.rainn.org.
The next scheduled training sessions are April 27-29 and October 20-22, 2026. Vanderbilt University School of Nursing will continue to offer these crucial training opportunities, working towards a future where all survivors have access to the specialized care they deserve. Share this information with colleagues and help expand the network of qualified SANE providers.
