A SANE Exam (forensic evidence exam or "rape kit') is available at no cost if you want to preserve evidence. You do not need to decide whether to report to law enforcement before receiving an exam.
It is best to get a SANE exam within 72 hours for most evidence while up to 120 hours (5 days) some evidence is still recoverable. After 120 hours, medical care and documentation remain valuable, so it is important to still seek medical care.
If possible, before the exam, avoid:
- Showering or bathing
- Changing clothes
- Eating or drinking
- Brushing your teeth
- Cleaning the area where the assault occurred
If you've already done any of these things, it is still likely that some evidence can be found, so still get an exam.
You may bring family, a friend or roommate with you to the exam. You can bring anything with you that will help you feel more comfortable. Nothing in the exam will be done without your consent. You have full control over how much or how little is done.
1. Go to nearest emergency department and tell them you need a SANE exam. The hospital staff will arrange for a sexual assault advocate from The Refuge to meet with you. An advocate can:
- Provide emotional support
- Explain your medical and reporting options
- Answer questions
- Connect you with resources
2. You will be seen by Dr. on call and are given a preliminary examination:
- Vitals
- Check for obvious wounds or immediate medical needs
- Check in on suicidality
3. Health Center calls SANE nurses.
- SANE nurses/advocate will work with you to contact the police and get a case # if you decide you want to report, so they will ask you the location of the assault.
- You do NOT need to talk to the police or make a formal statement.
- Try not to eat or drink until the SANE nurse arrives. ED nurses should collect a dirty urine sample (no washing or cleaning before the sample) in case the SANE nurse needs it. SANE nurses should also take a mouth swab prior to drinking, so wait to drink anything.
- SANE nurses will talk to you about any medications for possible pregnancy, or STI medications, but they will be administered by the SHC.
- SANE nurses will talk to you about post-exam care and follow-up. The student may need to follow up with the SHC.
4. The Refuge advocates will fill out all legal paperwork etc. for all the exams to cover the costs.
BYU Comprehensive Clinic
1190 N 900 E, Provo, UT 84604
Open Mon-Fri 8-5pm
801. 422.7759
Utah Valley Hospital Emergency Department
1034 N 500 W
Provo, UT, 84604
Open 24/7. Access the Emergency Department via the entrance off 300 West
801.357.2130
801.356.0045