COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Tech University is taking a significant step to help victims of sexual assault. The Whitson-Hester School of Nursing has received a nearly $1.5 million federal grant to train sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs). This will improve access to essential services for women in the Cookeville area.
These SANEs will undergo comprehensive training. Along with their nursing degrees, they’ll complete 40 hours of classroom learning and 16 hours of clinical practice through the International Association of Forensic Nurses. The training focuses on:
- Conducting trauma-informed interviews
- Collecting crucial evidence
- Documenting and photographing injuries
- Understanding the effects of trauma on the brain and body
In 2025, 26 nurses were trained to deliver “trauma-informed care and forensic exams.” This service is vital and available at the Cookeville Regional Medical Center. Ann Hellman, a professor of nursing and co-principal investigator on the grant, emphasized the importance of this work. “This is the third grant we’ve gotten on this topic,” she said. “We started trying to bring these services to our community about ten years ago. Now, we can train nurses to provide compassionate care right here.”
This three-year project, funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), began in July 2024. It’s part of a broader effort to ensure victims receive timely and appropriate care. Statistics indicate that trauma-informed care can significantly improve recovery outcomes for victims, making these training programs crucial.
Historically, training for SANEs has lagged in many areas, often due to funding limitations. This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also sets a precedent for ongoing support in the community. As awareness of sexual assault increases, so does the need for trained professionals who can provide sensitive and effective care.
Social media has been buzzing with discussions about the importance of such services. Many users express relief and hope that programs like these will help change the narrative surrounding sexual assault and support survivors in a meaningful way.
By strengthening the resources available locally, Tennessee Tech University is making a positive impact. With each trained nurse, the Cookeville region becomes a safer, more supportive place for those affected by trauma.
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