The third annual Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) training day brought together a wide range of staff and external partners to strengthen collaboration and enhance care for victims of sexual assault.
Attendees included police from Child Protection, Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), CPIU, Scenes of Crime, and forensic Physician from Forensic Medicine Queensland, along with representatives from Bundaberg and Hervey Bay's SANE teams, Hervey Bay Paediatricians, CPLO nurses, social workers, and the region’s new Advanced Social Worker for Family and Domestic Violence.
The training day featured several key presentations aimed at providing staff with a deeper understanding of the process surrounding sexual assault cases.
Scenes of Crime police led an informative session on sexual assault crime scene investigations, offering valuable insights into the forensic side of the process.
Meanwhile, CPIU and CIB officers shared what to expect during court proceedings, particularly when nurses are called to give evidence.
Jodie Orchid, profession lead, said one of the highlights of the day was a multi-agency case scenario session lead by Dr Natalie MacCormick from Forensic Medicine Queensland.
“This was an interesting collaborative discussion around how we manage the care of people who disclose they are victims of sexual assault,” she said.
“I am incredible grateful to the ongoing commitment of the SANE team to provide this service primarily on their rostered days off.”
Dr Fiona Baker said she was proud to be the medical lead for the service and commended the team’s dedication and unwavering commitment to this vulnerable patient group.
"Our SANE team are committed to delivering a high-level trauma informed service. They have made significant impact in improving the victim-survivor’s journey and experience through the Emergency Department and the forensic process.
“The team’s patient centred focus and compassion in supporting victim-survivors through this challenging experience is truly inspiring. "
Dr Baker said a highlight of the day was being able to reflect on the past year, and look forward to development and growth of the program to include a Paediatric Forensic Service.
“Last year we provided compassionate care to 37 victims of sexual assault, and we continue to strive to improve and broaden our service to provide care closer to home,” she said.
She also acknowledged the commitment of the SANE Professional Lead, Jodie Orchard, and the importance of the ongoing collaborative relationship with the Queensland Police Service, Forensic medicine Queensland and other external service providers.
The team continues to have rolling recruitment to cover on call rosters across our three main emergency departments.
Dr Baker and Jodie encourage nurses from all clinical areas interested in getting involved to reach out.
"We are always looking to strengthen our team, and I encourage anyone interested in making a difference to get in touch."
Debbie Carroll and Ben Ross-Edwards also attended to recognise the hard work and progress made by staff.