S.A.N.E. Care Now in Door County

Sadly, one out every four girls are assaulted by the time they turn 18 and one out of three women are assaulted in their lifetime. One out of every six boys will be sexually assaulted before they turn 18.

The question then arises of “what does one do if they are assaulted”? Who do they turn to and what services are available? If a victim chooses to have medical treatment does that mean they have to file a police report? What happens during a medical exam? These are all common questions a victim faces and unfortunately usually they think of these things when in the middle of a crisis.

By having this information now, you may have a more solid grasp on what to do if you or one of your friends or family members are assaulted. Door County is fortunate that it has its own Sexual Assault Center, located at 57 N 12th Ave., behind Sturgeon Bay High School. A Sexual Assault Center advocate will help provide support, advocacy and information. Here are several things to keep in mind.

It is highly encouraged that you do not eat, drink, go to the bathroom, shower or change your clothes. Unfortunately after having been victimized these are probably some of the hardest things to avoid. However, it is in your best interest not to do so until you have a S.A.N.E (Sexual Assault Nurse Exam). This is a specialized exam, specific to victims of sexual assault. This exam is done by a nurse who is trained specifically in this field. The nurse is taught how to collect any evidence of the assault that has been left on you or your clothing. The nurse checks your body for injuries and will treat you for any sexually transmitted infections or diseases as well as any other medical concerns that you may have.

Living in a small community one of the primary concerns is keeping things confidential and given the sensitive nature of sexual assaults, our hospital is also aware of the importance of protecting a person’s privacy and there are special precautions taken to ensure the patient’s privacy.

Because of the trauma of a Sexual Assault, the hospital will also call an advocate to walk you through the process. The advocate is there specifically to help you and emotionally support you as you go through this experience. They are trained to answer questions on “what happens next,” getting you to a safe place, reporting to law enforcement if you so choose and assist you in getting the proper resources needed. Their job is to support you and assist you.

We are fortunate that in Door County, Ministry Memorial Hospital now has a certified S.A.N.E nurse at the hospital and is providing services and support to victims of sexual assault as well as an advocate to walk victims through the process.

If you do find yourself or a friend or family member have shared with you that they have been assaulted and you’re unsure what to do next. Family Services provides free, confidential services to Door County residents with a 24-hour crisis line 920.746.8996.