SANE FAQ’s
1. How long does it typically take to complete the education and clinical requirements?
The didactic education is typically held in two sessions 3-4 weeks apart in order to give clinicians
the opportunity to integrate the education and initiate clinical experiences. Clinical mentorship
experiences should be completed within 6 months of the classroom education and can take up to
9 months to complete following the classroom education.
2. Does the course provide SANE certification?
No, certification as a SANE-A or SANE-P is the result of a Board exam successfully taken after
completion of the education, clinical requirements and ongoing practice as a SANE. The program
is designed to better prepare students to sit for Board exams after successfully completing the
program. The SANE-A and SANE-P certification examinations are offered by the International
Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN).
3. Does the College of Nursing set up the clinical experiences for SANE candidates?
No, clinical experiences are typically set up by the healthcare facility or SANE program that has
hired a nurse to work as a SANE. For nurses not currently hired by a SANE team in their
community, completing the SANE education course in advance of being hired can represent a
cost savings for the potential hiring facility. The SANE education course also provides licensed
healthcare professionals with increased knowledge & practice expertise in providing care to
patients impacted by crime and violence.
4. How do I get hired as a SANE in Colorado?
Check out our map page to find hospitals in Colorado that have a SANE program and contact the
coordinator listed for information about current openings.
5. I don’t meet the prerequisite requirements posted on the web page, but I really want to be
a SANE. What should I do?
The prerequisites are standardized expectations for nurses interested in developing forensic
healthcare expertise. Most Colorado SANE programs require that nurses applying for a position
with the SANE team have current patient care experience in an acute care setting. A Registered
Nurse who does not meet the clinical experience and practice requirements can attend the SANE
education course, but may need to demonstrate additional clinical competencies to a hospital or
clinical facility that is hiring for positions on a SANE team.