Forensic Nurse Examiner Program

Our specially trained forensic nurses are available to provide exams to patients of all ages 24/7, 365 days a year. The victim will receive a complete medical exam by a specially trained SANE in a safe and compassionate environment, free of charge.

A place to feel safe

The First Step is an initiative to assist the victims of sexual assault by conducting Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exams

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exams are needed when a person has been sexually assaulted within the last 120 hours or 5 days. Our specially trained forensic nurses are available to provide exams to patients of all ages 24/7, 365 days a year. The victim receives a complete medical exam by a specially trained SANE including, but not limited to, assessing for injuries, providing prophylactic STI, HIV and pregnancy medication, and collecting evidence for law enforcement. At our private SANE facility, located within the NMCAC, the victim is the only patient with a SANE and a trauma informed advocate.

Why THE FIRST STEP?

Trained Examiners

The victims receives a complete medical exam by our specially trained examiners

Complete Medical Exam

Our exam consists of assessing injuries, providing prophylactic STD, HIV, and pregnancy prophylactic medication

Private Rooms

Patient is provided with a private room with a trauma informed advocate in our central facility

Completely FREE

The services provided by The First Step are free of cost

Advanced Equipment

We have highly advanced equipment which can precisely detect very small injuries

Choice to Report

We provide healthcare services to every victim regardless of whether or not they decide they want to report to law enforcement.

Locations

Nurses

Advocates

At a Glance

We are always trying to help as many people as we can

Since the foundation of The First Step in 2017, we have been working tirelessly to help the victims of sexual assaults. We have been working together with local emergency departments, law enforcement, shelters and the community to provide state of the art healthcare services to all victims of sexual assault.