SANE nurse collecting swab in tube

Sexual Assault Evidence Collection (SANE): Supporting Texas Nurses in Specialized Practice

Sexual assault is a deeply traumatic experience, and the way it is handled in the first hours and days can significantly impact a survivor’s physical and emotional recovery—as well as the legal process. At the forefront of this sensitive work are Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), highly trained professionals who provide trauma-informed care and forensic evidence collection. In Texas, SANE nurses are regulated by the Texas State Board of Nursing (BON) and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), with specific educational requirements to enter and remain in this role.

For nurses already working in this specialty, continuing education is essential to maintain competence, meet regulatory expectations, and stay up to date with evolving best practices. That’s where Pedagogy Continuing Nurse Education plays a vital role.


What Is a SANE Nurse?

A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) is a Registered Nurse (RN) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with specialized education and clinical training in performing sexual assault forensic exams. SANE nurses are not only responsible for providing compassionate care to survivors, but also for documenting findings, collecting evidence, and sometimes testifying in court.


Texas Requirements for SANE Nurses

In Texas, SANE practice is governed by both the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 420 and rules set by the Texas BON. To become a SANE, nurses must complete a 40-hour didactic course approved by the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG), followed by supervised clinical experience.

However, education doesn’t stop there. Texas nurses must continue their learning through relevant continuing education (CE) to maintain proficiency and meet ongoing professional and legal expectations. This CE must reinforce knowledge of forensic techniques, trauma-informed care, legal standards, documentation, and coordination with law enforcement and advocacy services.


Why Continuing Education Matters for SANE Nurses

Sexual assault cases are complex, and the landscape of forensic nursing is constantly evolving with new legal standards, evidence handling procedures, and best practices in survivor care. Continuing education ensures that SANE nurses:

  • Remain confident and current in their forensic knowledge
  • Maintain compliance with state and facility requirements
  • Improve outcomes for survivors
  • Reduce risk of errors in evidence collection and documentation
  • Meet institutional and credentialing standards

Pedagogy’s Online CE Course: A Trusted Resource for Texas SANE Nurses

To support SANE nurses in their professional development, Pedagogy Continuing Nurse Education offers online CNE/CEU course:

๐Ÿ‘‰ Sexual Assault Evidence Collection (SANE) Education for Texas Nurses

This course does not fulfill the initial 40-hour didactic requirement, but it does provide targeted continuing education for license renewal that reinforces essential skills and aligns with Texas practice standards for nurses who are already trained or certified as SANEs.

Benefits of Choosing Pedagogy’s Online CE:

  • โœ… Texas-specific content tailored to meet BON and OAG expectations
  • โœ… Online, self-paced learning—perfect for busy nurses
  • โœ… Accredited continuing education hours you can count on for license renewal and credential maintenance
  • โœ… Instant certificate download upon completion

Conclusion

Maintaining your skills and staying informed is just as important as your initial training. For SANE nurses in Texas, continuing education is not only a regulatory requirement—it’s a professional responsibility to provide the best care for survivors and uphold forensic integrity.

With our Sexual Assault Evidence Collection (SANE) Education for Texas Nurses, you can fulfill your CE needs with confidence, convenience, and content you can trust.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Click here to explore our full Course Library and register today.