Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE)

While it's difficult to comprehend, sexual assault is an ugly truth that must be acknowledged. Many people fall victim to assault each year, and the statistics are staggering. Medical Center Health System recognizes the need to help sexual assault victims right away and begin the healing process. In addition, we recognize that hospitals can play an important role in the potential collection of physical evidence to aid in the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases. Medical Center Hospital is the only SAFE-Ready facility in Ector county, providing a specialty trained expert, trauma-informed, forensic program for survivors of sexual assault led by certified sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) to our community and surrounding counties.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger call 9-1-1.

Sexual assault is any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without your consent or permission.

Sexual assault is any nonconsensual:

Voluntary, explicit agreement between participants in sexual activity. Sexual partners should never assume consent to any sexual activity. Consent must be clear and verbally communicated and must be active, not passive or implied. SILENCE does not equal CONSENT. There is no consent when there is force, intimidation, or coercion. One cannot consent if they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Trust your gut. If something looks like it might be a bad situation, it probably is. Be direct. Ask someone who looks like they may need help if they’re okay. Be aware if someone is deliberately trying to intoxicate, isolate, or corner someone else. Never blame the victim.