Introduction

1. The Simulated Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SSAFE) Pilot Program: Nurse Practice Development and Better Outcomes for Sexual Assault Victims Utilising a Clinical Teaching Associate simulated learning event to support the training and maintenance of Forensic Nurse Examiner in sexual assault examinations Pilot Program The SSAFE program supported by CTAs was designed to train and evaluate practice development of FNEs. Two nurses participated in the Program on June 22 2013 using two experienced CTAs from the University of Tasmania. A pre-test and post-test were administered to the FNEs and an OSCE was developed and utilised by an experienced FME to assess competence in performing the examination. The CTAs provided feedback on the FNEs’ interpersonal skills. The program was evaluated through a triangulated method which assessed the model’s processes and outcomes. Results The program has provided an opportunity for FNEs’ to demonstrate knowledge and skills into practice and allowed them to receive personalised on-the-spot feedback regarding their performance. The next steps … The SSAFE-OSCE simulation using CTAs offers an alternative to contextual learning that has the added benefit for the FNEs who can practice evidence collection and critical thinking without the additional fear and anxiety of creating errors in a live case. The SSAFE-OSCE simulation using CTAs should be encouraged as another strategy to train FNEs and to assist them retain and maintain their valuable skills. • Introduction • A sexual assault presentation is a unique and challenging situation that requires skilled and proficient Forensic Nurse Examiners (FNE). • For victims of sexual assault, a forensic examination is often the first step in the process to justice. Assessment and treatment of victims, as well as the meticulous collection and documentation of evidence are vital for a strong case in Australia’s criminal justice system. • A problem that exists for FNEs in Tasmania and other rural and remote areas of Australia, is the ability to obtain, maintain and demonstrate sexual assault examination and forensic evidence collection skills when the number of acute sexual assault presentations are relatively low. • In response to this need, a partnership project was developed to design and evaluate a program that allows the FNE to conduct a forensic examination in a simulated environment, that includes: • A common clinical scenario encountered in the treatment of adult female sexual assault victims; • Female Clinical Teaching Associates (CTAs) trained in providing intimate examinations, to enact a sexual assault role-play scenario and provide feedback regarding the FNE’s performance; • An experienced Forensic Medical Examiner (FME) to assess the FNE’s compliance with sexual assault forensic procedures; • The use of a criteria based Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) assessment format for evaluation of the clinical practice; and • The FNE to engage in the simulation and practice and demonstrate skills. Acknowledgements This Pilot could not have been undertaken without the generous assistance and support of the Chief Nurse and Midwifery Officer, the Director of Statewide Forensic Medical Services and the Head, Human Simulation Education and Training, School of Medicine, University of Tasmania. Program Lead: Morgen Hughes Statewide Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Statewide Forensic Medical Services