The Forensic Nurse

Victims Assistance Services (VAS) of WestCOP, Inc. coordinates the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program. The SANE has the responsibility to respond to any one of our nine participating hospitals in Westchester County to provide direct-services to victims of sexual assault, ages 12 and older. The SANE provides immediate, specialized, patient-centered medical care and performs comprehensive forensic medical examinations, including evidence collection, health-related education, and referrals; the SANE may also be called to testify in court as an expert witness regarding the quality of the evidence he/she collects, documentation, and the preservation and custody of physical evidence. The SANE utilizes an interdisciplinary approach through collaboration with hospital staff, advocates, law enforcement, and the DA’s office. The SANE will also attend mandatory continuing education trainings and case review meetings. 

Other Information About This Job:  SANEs will provide on-call services for at least three full shifts a month (shifts are weekdays and weekends, 8am-5pm or 5pm-8am) and commit to the program for a minimum of one year.  The nurses in our SANE program work in all different fields of nursing and choose to work as a SANE during their free time – in order to give back to their communities.  While they do receive a flat stipend per case, our SANEs volunteer their on-call time.  To apply for this position, please send a cover letter and resume via email to mlaaksonen@westcop.org or via fax to 914-345-3513 to the attention of Michele Laaksonen, Sexual Assault Program Manager I.