Sexual Assault Resource Team in St. James
Sexual assault can happen to anyone, anytime, anyplace. Survivors of sexual violence often experience fear, shock, numbness, disbelief, shame, anger and feelings of a loss of control over their lives. Sexual assault victims may find it hard to trust people, and going about a normal routine may require tremendous effort. Crises of any kind are easier to cope with when there are supportive people close by, who accept and understand these feelings.
Rape, sexual assault, incest and sexual abuse are not acts of sex. They are violent crimes that use sex as a weapon to overpower, humiliate or hurt another person. Anyone can be victimized regardless of sex, age, race, sexual orientation and social or economic background.
The Sexual Assault Resource Team, or SART, in St. James, Minnesota, makes it a priority to provide a safe, nonjudgmental setting, 24/7/365 in the Emergency Department. The SART program works collaboratively with other community responders, including those in advocacy, law enforcement and the legal system. Sexual assault victims are cared for by a sexual assault nurse examiner, or SANE, who has completed special education and clinical preparation to provide expert healthcare services and forensic care.
During a sexual assault exam, the nurse examiner will:
- Document your patient history.
- Assess and treat trauma response and injury.
- Collect and manage evidence.
- Evaluate pregnancy risk.
- Provide emotional and social support needed during a post-trauma evaluation and examination.
- Document the injury.
- Provide testimony required to move this kind of case through the legal system.
- Offer medication to reduce risk of sexually transmitted disease.
If you have injuries requiring treatment, our Emergency Department staff will further evaluate and treat you. This is separate from the nurse examiner evidence collection exam. The cost associated with injury treatment are not covered by the SART program and will be billed to your medical insurance or other arrangements can be made.
If you've been sexually assaulted, go to the Emergency Department.