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Qualitative Analysis of Prosecutors' Perspectives on Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners and the Criminal Justice Response to Sexual Assault. J Forensic Nurs 2017;13(2):62-68

Date

05/20/2017

Pubmed ID

28525430

DOI

10.1097/JFN.0000000000000151

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-85021058944 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   32 Citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to understand prosecutors' perspectives on the contribution of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) to evidence collection and trials in sexual assault cases.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have suggested that a sexual assault case is more likely to progress in the criminal justice system when a SANE conducts the forensic medical examination. However, little is known about how prosecutors perceive SANEs and what they value about SANEs versus other medical professionals.

METHOD: Semistructured interviews, conducted in one jurisdiction with eight assistant district attorneys who prosecute sexual assault cases, included questions about the value of SANEs in evidence collection and trials. Interview transcripts were analyzed to identify common themes and variability among prosecutors.

RESULTS: Most prosecutors identified advantages for SANEs in evidence collection, trial preparation, and testimony. Specific advantages cited by one or more prosecutors included superior documentation, thoroughness of the physical examination, better identification of injuries, quality of relationships with patients, professionalism, skill in trial preparation and testifying, and credibility with jurors.

DISCUSSION: These findings help validate SANEs' contribution to the criminal justice response to sexual assault, despite the study's limitations in sample size and inclusion of only one jurisdiction. The study also suggests the value of further education about SANEs for prosecutors who may not have the opportunity to learn about the range of skills SANEs possess.

Author List

Schmitt T, Cross TP, Alderden M

Author

Thaddeus Schmitt MD Assistant Professor in the Emergency Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin




MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Criminal Law
Forensic Nursing
Humans
Interviews as Topic
Nurse's Role
Sex Offenses
United States