Forensic Nursing – Taking Forensic Science to the Next Level

Forensic nursing is growing in popularity as CSI and other criminal programs top the charts. It can be an exciting field with many opportunities and options available.

Nurses continue to gain a stronghold in the forensic science arena. They already know how to gather specimens and treat patients with compassion. With extra training, they can learn to quickly and correctly gather forensic evidence that can be used in a court of law.

The primary role is working with victims of violence. These victims are being bombarded with police, doctors and social workers. Having one expert who can do everything from start to finish, including going to trial, makes the process a lot less stressful for the victim.

Impact of the International Association of Forensic Nurses

The specialty did not actually become official until after 1992. That is when seventy sexual assault nurses convened in Minnesota, leading to the founding of International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN).

Since then, IAFN has had a big impact on the future of forensic science and the health care industry. It has added creditability and professional status. Practicing in many diverse fields, they specialize in domestic violence, emergency trauma, criminal medicine and investigation.

Getting Started

The most common entry role is as a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE). Many forensic nurses also function as a Legal Nurse Consultant.

Speciality degree programs are available, but are not required. A good start would be to take a SANE certification program. Then, after having two years experience in the field and passing the certification exam offered by IAFN, you can become a Certified Forensic Nurse.

Depending on experience, there are many employment opportunities, as well as independent contractual options, open to the enterprising provider. Consider the following areas of practice:

• Healthcare facilities
• Correctional facilities
• County Prosecutors
• Attorneys
• Coroner’s Office
• Insurance companies
• Psychiatric facilities

Make a Difference in Your Community

Forensic nursing is attracting more and more providers who really want to make a difference in their community. It’s an opportunity for them to help victims of violence, while helping the perpetrators of violence to get help.

Check out IAFN for more information.

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