Perceived Value of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Certification and Retention: Case Study of a Rural South Texas Community

Background: The recruitment and retention of sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) is a nationwide challenge, especially in the rural U.S. Aim: To examine SANEs’ perception of the certification and its relation to the certification renewal outcome. Methods: Twenty-three survey responses were collected from South Texas SANE certification program participants and were analyzed using t tests and linear probability regression models. In addition, we analyzed open-ended responses qualitatively. Results: The participants scored intrinsic value (e.g., internal benefits) higher than the extrinsic value (e.g., related to external factors). The effect of the value scores on the probability of renewal varied based on model specification. Nurses working on call and shifts had an increased probability of renewal compared with those working daytime. Extrinsic factors prevented most nurses from recertifying. Discussion: To facilitate retention, institutional support that enhances the extrinsic value of the certification may be most effective for SANEs in rural communities.