Forensic Nurse Examiner Program
Forensic Nurse Examiner Program
Medical-forensic services after sexual assault, abuse or violence.
If you’ve experienced sexual assault, abuse, or another type of violence, you can come directly to the Kootenai Health Emergency Department for care. Our Forensic Nurse Examiners (FNEs) are registered nurses with specialized training to care for people who have experienced sexual assault, intimate partner violence, physical assault, strangulation, human trafficking, child abuse, and other crimes.
You and your FNE will decide together what care is right for you. Whether you need medical attention, want to understand your options, or choose to have evidence collected, you’ll receive care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
24/7/365
All Ages
Your Choice
Here When You Need Us
Forensic Nurse Examiner services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Forensic Nurse Examiner Services
Medical Forensic Services
Depending on your needs and the services you choose, your FNE can provide:
- Medical-forensic evaluation
- Injury assessment and documentation
- Forensic photography
- Evidence collection
- Assistance with reporting to law enforcement, when requested*
- STI testing and preventive treatment
- Baseline pregnancy testing
- Emergency contraception
*Some cases require mandated reporting.
Support and Follow-Up
Your FNE can also help with:
- Connection with advocacy agencies
- Safety planning
- Assistance with applying for crime victims compensation
- Referrals for follow-up care
FNEs may also provide court testimony related to the medical-forensic examination.
Who We Serve
Our Forensic Nurse Examiner team provides specialized care for anyone who has experienced:
- Sexual assault or abuse
- Intimate partner violence
- Physical assault or battery
- Domestic violence
- Strangulation
- Child abuse and neglect
- Vulnerable adult abuse and neglect
- Human trafficking
- Gunshot or stabbing injuries
- Other crimes
What to Expect
When you arrive at the Emergency Department:
- Check in with the first nurse. Let them know what you are being seen for.
- Complete an initial assessment. You’ll be asked basic questions about your health history, and staff will take your vital signs.
- Address emergent medical needs first. If needed, Emergency Department staff will address these before moving forward.
- Connect with a Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE). Staff will notify an FNE. In some cases, depending on your injury or condition, staff may contact an FNE even if you’re unable to request services yourself.
- Talk through your options. Your FNE will explain the services available and help you decide which are right for you.
A medical-forensic examination can take several hours to complete.
Call 208-625-5700
View test results and medical history anytime.
Check out MyChart Getting Started Guide or ask our nurses or front office to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an exam take?
A medical-forensic examination can take anywhere from three to five hours to complete, depending on the severity of injuries and other factors.
How soon should I be seen after a sexual assault?
Evidence for a sexual assault examination can be collected up to 120 hours after the assault for patients aged 14 and older and up to 72 hours for patients under age 14. We can still provide other services even if you are outside that window.
For all crimes, it is best to be seen as soon as possible.
When will I get the results of the evidence collection?
DNA and toxicology evidence is collected and sealed by the FNE at Kootenai Health. It is then submitted to law enforcement as evidence and sent to the Idaho State Crime Lab.
Kootenai Health does not receive the results of these collections. Once results are available, the law enforcement agency handling the case is notified.
Anonymous kits are not submitted for testing. An evidence kit cannot be tested if no report is made to law enforcement.
How much does this cost?
Costs can depend on a variety of factors.
Sexual assault examinations are covered through Crime Victims Compensation.
For all other crimes, Kootenai Health will help patients regardless of their ability to pay. Kootenai Health accepts commercial insurance as well as Medicare and Medicaid.
Victims of crime may also be eligible for assistance through Crime Victims Compensation. See Benefits You May Be Eligible For for more information.
How long does an exam take?
A medical-forensic examination can take anywhere from three to five hours to complete, depending on the severity of injuries and other factors.
When will I get the results of the evidence collection?
DNA and toxicology evidence is collected and sealed by the FNE at Kootenai Health. It is then submitted to law enforcement as evidence and sent to the Idaho State Crime Lab.
Kootenai Health does not receive the results of these collections. Once results are available, the law enforcement agency handling the case is notified.
Anonymous kits are not submitted for testing. An evidence kit cannot be tested if no report is made to law enforcement.
How soon should I be seen after a sexual assault?
Evidence for a sexual assault examination can be collected up to 120 hours after the assault for patients aged 14 and older and up to 72 hours for patients under age 14. We can still provide other services even if you are outside that window.
For all crimes, it is best to be seen as soon as possible.
How much does this cost?
Costs can depend on a variety of factors.
Sexual assault examinations are covered through Crime Victims Compensation.
For all other crimes, Kootenai Health will help patients regardless of their ability to pay. Kootenai Health accepts commercial insurance as well as Medicare and Medicaid.
Victims of crime may also be eligible for assistance through Crime Victims Compensation. See Benefits You May Be Eligible For for more information.
