Assessing Trauma and Training Needs of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Across the United States—A 6-Month Follow-Up

Aim To examine how the individual experiences of sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) changed across a 6-month period. Method SANEs from a prior study participated in a 6-month follow-up survey regarding secondary trauma, burnout, support, work-related challenges and training needs. Some also completed the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale and the Professional Quality of Life Scale. Results There were a few changes in the feelings of secondary trauma and burnout, with most SANEs reporting little to none. However, there was a decrease in feelings of support. Further, many challenges and training needs remained stable across time. Discussion While secondary trauma and burnout were both low and stable, it is concerning that SANEs felt less supported over time. In addition, the lack of change in challenges and training needs may suggest that the needs of SANEs are not being addressed.