Assessing Burnout and Secondary Traumatic Stress Among Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners in the Upstate of South Carolina

Background Sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) provide trauma-informed care to victims of sexual assault. Repeated exposure to trauma places SANEs at risk for burnout and secondary traumatic stress (STS), which may negatively impact SANE availability. Aim To examine burnout and STS among SANEs and their potential impact on workforce sustainability. Methods SANEs in the Upstate of South Carolina completed a cross-sectional survey including a demographic and occupational questionnaire, the Maslach Burnout Inventory–Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel, and the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale. Results Among 11 respondents, none met criteria for burnout or severe STS; however, low personal accomplishment and varying levels of depersonalization were observed. Noncertified SANEs reported significantly higher emotional exhaustion and depersonalization than certified SANEs, and higher assault volume was associated with increased intrusion symptoms. Conclusion SANEs demonstrated subscale variations in burnout and trauma-related symptoms, with differences by certification status and case volume, highlighting the need for ongoing support interventions.