FAQ

SART stands for “sexual assault response team.” You might also hear SANE, which stands for “sexual assault nurse examiner.” Both terms refer to a forensic examination. If you are a victim of sexual assault, you are entitled to a sexual assault forensic exam from a trained medical professional, free of charge. At Verity, you will generally hear advocates refer to this exam as a SART.

The SART approach involves both sensitive and thorough medical care, and the collection of evidence that may play a crucial role in how a case moves forward through the justice system. A specially-trained healthcare professional conducts a thorough examination to address the survivor's physical health needs while collecting evidence. The nurse will conduct a thorough examination that may include multiple parts of the body, depending on the details of the assault. The nurse examiner also might need to take photographs at certain points during the exam. Throughout the process, the nurse will explain each step , and ensure the survivor's consent and comfort are prioritized. Depending on the details of the assault, the nurse might offer the survivor birth control or medication to help prevent STIs. A pregnancy test may also be offered during the exam. Often, the clothes a survivor arrives in will be collected for evidence and new clothes provided by organizations like Verity will be given prior to leaving the hospital.

Although the examination might feel invasive or uncomfortable, it is your choice to have the exam and you can stop the exam at any time.

The SART nurse and up to two individuals of your choice, including a Verity advocate and/or a family member or friend may accompany you, if you wish. You can also choose to not have anyone in the room with the exception of the nurse examiner. You have full autonomy in determining who, among non-medical personnel, are present in the examination room with you, and you can also ask them to leave at any time. Generally, if a family member or advocate is present, there is a curtain dividing the examination space from the seating area so you can have support in the room while also having privacy, if that is what you wish.

A SART exam is not mandatory. It is a decision made by the survivor and a choice they can make based on their preferences and needs. Authorities and healthcare professionals encourage survivors to make informed choices that align with their physical and emotional well-being. If you need support around deciding if having a SART exam is right for you, Verity can help. Call our support and crisis line at anytime.

If you wish to undergo a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) exam, you can express your preference directly to law enforcement, a medical professional, or to Verity. However, it's important to note that the decision to order a SART exam lies solely with the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the location where the assault occurred. A SART exam is typically more likely to be ordered if the assault took place within the past 72 hours (3 days). The criteria for ordering a SART exam may vary among individual police agencies, as each agency determines its own protocols and procedures.

Yes, you can request a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) exam even if you don't plan to report the assault to the police. The decision to undergo a SART exam is entirely voluntary and survivors have the right to choose the level of involvement with law enforcement. You can access a SART exam for medical care, evidence collection, and support services without the obligation to file a police report.

First and foremost, make sure you are safe in the aftermath of an assault. Call emergency services if you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical attention.

To preserve evidence, avoid showering, bathing, changing clothes, or washing your hands. If possible, do not eat, drink, smoke, or brush your teeth until after the exam. Reach out to law enforcement, Verity, a trusted friend, family member, or support person to accompany you to the hospital to request a SART exam.