SAFE & SANE Examinations

Preserving Evidence and Sexual Assault Exam

Survivors of sexual assault are strongly advised to have an exam completed by a SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner) or sexual assault nurse examiner-adult/adolescent (SANE-A). Examinations of this sort may be difficult, so it is advised that, if possible, you have a friend or family member accompany you. In addition, the following are recommended to ensure the exam evidence is not contaminated.

• Avoid bathing or washing yourself before being examined. You should not take a shower, wash your hands or face, comb your hair, or douche. Normal, everyday behavior, such as going to the bathroom, can destroy or remove evidence of sexual assault; you should try to avoid doing so, if possible.
• Try not to smoke or drink anything. Altering your appearance can hide bruising or lacerations that can be cited as evidence when pressing charges. It is best not to apply makeup or any other substance that can change your appearance.
• Evidence of the assault can be found in the fibers of your clothes, strands of your hair, or on other parts of your body, so it is important to try to preserve as much evidence as possible. Clothing, towels, sheets, and other items should not be washed or moved.
• The clothing worn at the time of the assault should be brought to the hospital in a sanitary container, such as a paper bag or a clean sheet. If the clothing worn at the time of the assault is still being worn, it is advised to bring a change of clothes to the hospital.