At the Guernsey County Children’s Advocacy Center, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exams are provided in a safe, caring, and child-friendly environment by specially trained nurses. A SANE is a registered nurse with nationally recognized training in caring for children and adolescents who may have experienced abuse or assault. Our SANE nurses are specially trained to help children feel as comfortable and supported as possible during the exam process. These exams focus on the child’s health, safety, and well-being while also documenting any medical concerns when needed.

​

     The Guernsey County CAC offers access to both acute and non-acute SANE exams.

​

     An acute SANE exam is completed when concerns of abuse or assault have happened recently. During this exam, the nurse may check for injuries, provide medical care, and collect forensic evidence if appropriate.​ A non-acute SANE exam is completed when a child talks about abuse that may have happened days, weeks, months, or even years earlier. While evidence collection may no longer be needed, the exam still helps ensure the child is healthy, safe, and connected to any follow-up care or resources or medical care they may need. Both types of exams are completed with compassion, patience, and sensitivity to help reduce stress and trauma for children and families.

​

     The Guernsey County CAC proudly partners with OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center in Cambridge and Clark Family Practice in Byesville to ensure families have access to quality medical and forensic care close to home.

​

     All SANE exams are provided free of charge to families so every child has access to services, regardless of financial circumstances.

​

     At the Guernsey County CAC, we are committed to helping children and families feel safe, supported, and cared for every step of the way.