The Pitt' Sensitively Depicts Sexual Assault Exam Process

HBO Max medical drama consults experts to portray the meticulous SANE nurse procedure with care

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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The latest episode of the HBO Max medical drama 'The Pitt' delves into the sensitive process of a sexual assault forensic exam, also known as a 'rape kit' exam. The show consulted with experts, including the UCLA Health Rape Treatment Center and Pittsburgh Action Against Rape, to accurately and thoughtfully depict the step-by-step procedure carried out by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). The episode follows a young woman named Ilana as she undergoes the comprehensive exam, highlighting the bravery required to come forward and the importance of the SANE's role in collecting evidence while providing compassionate support.

Why it matters

By shedding light on the rape kit exam process, 'The Pitt' aims to educate viewers and dispel misconceptions. The episode serves to bolster the emotional arc of the show's healthcare providers, particularly nurse Dana Evans, who is a certified SANE and assists Ilana throughout the exam. The storyline underscores the meticulous nature of the SANE's work and the vital support they offer survivors, while also acknowledging the difficulty and trauma of the experience.

The details

The episode begins with Ilana, played by Tina Ivlev, arriving at the ER after being sexually assaulted at a barbecue. Nurse Dana Evans, the department's SANE, takes charge of Ilana's case, walking her through the exam process step-by-step. This includes Ilana changing into a robe, her clothing being collected as evidence, Dana using a black light to check for bodily fluids, and swabbing her mouth and fingernails. When the exam reaches the internal vaginal collection, Ilana panics and decides to stop the process, revealing the friend who assaulted her. The episode highlights how survivors can complete the exam without immediately deciding to file a police report.

  • The episode takes place on the Fourth of July, when the ER is busy and resources like SANE nurses may be limited.

The players

Ilana

A young woman who has experienced a sexual assault and undergoes the forensic exam process.

Dana Evans

The charge nurse and certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) who guides Ilana through the comprehensive exam.

Dr. Al-Hashimi

The doctor who assists Dana and examines Ilana for any immediate medical needs.

Emma

A recent nursing school graduate who helps Dana with the exam.

PAAR

Pittsburgh Action Against Rape, the organization that sends an advocate to provide Ilana with resources and support during the exam.

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What they’re saying

“We wanted to highlight the very important and incredible work of a SANE, especially in the department setting. And we also wanted to see the bravery it takes for a survivor to come forward, let alone do a rape kit ... It's not an easy decision for somebody to make, and it's not an easy process for somebody to go through.”

— Kirsten Pierre-Geyfman, Co-writer of the episode (Houston Chronicle)

“I wanted people to understand the extent of the exam, I think that's a misconception among a lot of people.”

— Dr. Kathleen Sekula, SANE nurse consultant (Houston Chronicle)

“The thing that struck me was the fact the other shows might focus on what happened and then dive into that. What I loved about this, the minute she starts talking about it, they cut [away]. There's so much underneath it. I wanted it to be similar to real life when you have a traumatic situation happen — sometimes you can be hyperfocused on certain details, then other things are cloudy. Her head is spinning. She's in shock.”

— Tina Ivlev, Actress playing Ilana (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The episode will continue in the next installment, as Ilana decides whether to complete the rape kit exam after initially stopping the process.

The takeaway

This episode of 'The Pitt' provides a sensitive and detailed look at the comprehensive sexual assault forensic exam, highlighting the vital role of SANE nurses in supporting survivors and collecting evidence, while also acknowledging the immense bravery and trauma involved in the process. The show's commitment to authenticity and consultation with experts aims to educate viewers and dispel misconceptions around this important healthcare procedure.