Journal of emergency nursing : JEN : official publication of the Emergency Department Nurses Association
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Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) are specialized nurses who provide sexual assault (SA) examinations and forensic evidence collection. Currently, Adult/Adolescent (A/A) SANEs in Massachusetts are trained and certified to care only for patients 12 years and older who present acutely to EDs. The purpose of this study was to describe the attitudes of SANEs regarding the possibility of cross-training to care for younger patients (<12 years). ⋯ This research fills a gap in the forensic and ED nursing literature by providing insights into the attitudes and concerns of SANEs who care for some of the most vulnerable patients. The findings of this study can inform the acute care and evidence collection practices that are used when caring for pediatric patients who have experienced SA.