How to Become a Forensic Nurse

Have you ever wondered what it takes to help unravel the mysteries of crime and provide compassionate care to victims of violence? Forensic nursing is a unique and rewarding career that combines the worlds of healthcare and criminal justice, making a significant impact on the lives of victims and the pursuit of justice. Ready to embark on this life-changing journey? Let’s dive into the essential guide to becoming a forensic nurse and explore the diverse roles, challenges, and rewards that await you.

Key Takeaways

  • Forensic nursing combines healthcare and criminal justice expertise to provide victims with necessary care while collecting evidence.
  • Becoming a forensic nurse requires educational requirements, licensure/certification, and field experience.
  • Forensic nurses make an impact by providing compassionate care, collecting evidence & advocating for their patients.

The World of Forensic Nursing: An Overview

forensic nurse

The extraordinary field of forensic nursing marries the skills of a registered nurse with specialized knowledge of the criminal justice system. These healthcare heroes provide care to victims of violence, human trafficking, and elder abuse while also acting as a liaison between victims and the legal and justice system. From sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) to forensic psychiatric nurses, the world of forensic nursing offers a multitude of roles, including the forensic nurse examiner, to make a lasting impact on victims and society.

Registered nurses are well-suited for forensic roles, mainly due to their proficient communication, assessment, and documentation abilities. By integrating healthcare and criminal justice, forensic nurses provide comprehensive and compassionate medical care to victims of violent crimes while offering their expertise in civil and criminal proceedings related to nursing practice and care given.

The Intersection of Healthcare and Criminal Justice

Working in various settings like hospitals, community anti-violence programs, coroner’s and medical examiner’s offices, correctional institutions, and psychiatric hospitals, forensic nurses serve as the crucial link between healthcare and criminal justice. Their unique position allows them to offer their expertise in collecting evidence, providing testimony, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to enhance the community’s response to criminal activity.

Forensic nurses bridge the gap in a world where healthcare and justice often seem disconnected, ensuring victims receive the proper care they deserve while also accurately collecting crucial evidence for criminal investigations. This perfect blend of healthcare and criminal justice expertise makes many forensic nurses indispensable in the pursuit of justice and healing for victims, as forensic nurses work at the intersection of these two fields.

The Impact of Forensic Nurses on Victims and Society

Forensic nurses leave an indelible mark on both the lives of the victims they care for and the broader pursuit of justice with their work. Providing compassionate forensic nursing care to victims of violent crimes, human trafficking, and elder abuse, forensic nurses play a vital role in the criminal justice system, supporting victims, testifying in court, and aiding in the pursuit of justice. Their specialized forensic knowledge and skills are utilized when collecting evidence and giving testimony in court cases concerning their patients, ensuring that victims receive the necessary care and support while also contributing to the legal process.

Spreading awareness of the extent of violent crime and the critical importance of providing victims with the necessary care and support is a role instrumental to forensic nurses. Their efforts help prosecute perpetrators and deliver justice to victims and society. By combining their nursing skills with specialized knowledge of law enforcement and legal procedures, forensic nurses advocate for the well-being of their patients and contribute to a safer, more compassionate society.

The Path to Becoming a Forensic Nurse

The path to becoming a forensic nurse involves completion of the necessary education, licensure acquisition, and field experience. The journey begins with a strong foundation in nursing, as forensic nurses must first become registered nurses before pursuing specialized training in forensic nursing. Along the way, a sense of care, resilience, and a genuine interest in the relationship between healthcare and criminal justice will serve as guiding principles for those called to this unique and rewarding profession.

The subsequent sections will delve into:

  • Necessary educational requirements
  • Licensure and certifications to become a forensic nurse
  • Diverse roles within forensic nursing
  • How to navigate the job market to find forensic nursing opportunities.

The final sections will consider the profession’s challenges and rewards, as well as how forensic nurses can impact victims and society.

Educational Requirements

Earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a prerequisite to becoming a forensic nurse. While an associate degree might be more cost-effective and require less time, a bachelor’s degree offers a more comprehensive education, which can ultimately lead to better career opportunities in the long run. Some state nursing boards even have specific educational requirements for specialized roles, such as sexual assault nurse examiners.

Regardless of the chosen degree path, strong clinical assessment skills are a prerequisite for a forensic nurse. While online programs might be available to supplement your learning, clinical training must be completed in person at a healthcare facility to gain hands-on experience and develop the vital skills needed to succeed in the field.

Licensure and Certification

Licensure as a registered nurse, which requires passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and submitting an application to the applicable state nursing board, is a mandatory step in becoming a forensic nurse. Once licensure is obtained, additional certifications in forensic nursing specialties can enhance your career prospects and help you stand out in the job market.

Although certifications are not a prerequisite for the majority of forensic nursing positions, they can demonstrate your commitment to the field and your expertise in specific areas, such as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certification. Pursuing these additional credentials can not only improve your professional standing but also open doors to specialized roles within the forensic nursing profession.

Gaining Experience

Just like any nursing career, experience is a crucial component in forensic nursing. Gaining experience in various healthcare settings and working with diverse populations can help you develop the skills needed for success in the field. The International Association of Forensic Nurses recommends obtaining at least 860 hours of hands-on experience and certification as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) to hone your forensic nursing skills.

In addition to clinical experience, it’s essential to build connections with other professionals in the field, such as law enforcement and legal professionals. These relationships can help you learn more about the unique challenges and rewards of forensic nursing while building a strong professional network that can support your career growth.

Diverse Roles within Forensic Nursing

A variety of specialized roles catering to different interests and skills are offered in forensic nursing. From sexual assault nurse examiners to forensic psychiatric nurses, and death investigators or nurse coroners, each role within forensic nursing plays a vital part in the healthcare and criminal justice systems. As you explore these diverse roles, consider which area aligns best with your passion, strengths, and professional goals.

The subsequent sections will delve deeper into the specialized roles of sexual assault nurse examiners, forensic psychiatric nurses, and death investigators or nurse coroners. By understanding the unique responsibilities and requirements of each role, you can make an informed decision about your forensic nursing career path.

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs)

Providing care and forensic examinations for sexual assault victims while often testifying in court to support legal proceedings is a crucial role played by Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs). They are responsible for:

  • Delivering comprehensive healthcare to survivors of sexual assault
  • Performing forensic examinations
  • Documenting evidence of abuse
  • Providing holistic nursing care for the patient

The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) offers two certifications for sexual assault nurse examiners: SANE-A for adult examiners and SANE-P for those specializing in pediatric examinations. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the specialized field of sexual assault nursing and can help you stand out as a skilled and knowledgeable professional in the forensic nursing community.

Forensic Psychiatric Nurses

Working with both victims and offenders in various settings like hospitals, correctional facilities, and psychiatric institutions to address mental health issues is the role of forensic psychiatric nurses. They provide treatment and management for individuals with severe mental health conditions or disorders, focusing on the intersection of mental health and criminal justice.

In order to become a forensic psychiatric nurse, the following requirements are typically necessary:

  • A minimum of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing
  • Specialized training in forensic nursing
  • Relevant certifications, such as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certification
  • Some forensic psychiatric nurses may also pursue a master’s degree in forensic nursing for advanced practice roles.

Death Investigators and Nurse Coroners

Investigating causes of death is the role of death investigators and nurse coroners. They work closely with law enforcement and medical examiners offices to:

  • Collect evidence
  • Determine the circumstances surrounding a death
  • Conduct investigations into the causes of death
  • Collaborate with law enforcement and medical examiners to acquire evidence
  • Ascertain the conditions surrounding a death

While there are no mandatory educational requirements for death investigators or nurse coroners, a bachelor’s degree in nursing, natural science, anthropology, or forensic science is beneficial. The American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators offers two certifications: Registry Certification and Board Certification, which can help demonstrate your expertise in this specialized area of forensic nursing.

Navigating the Job Market: Finding Forensic Nursing Opportunities

A strategic job search and a commitment to professional development are required to find forensic nursing opportunities. By utilizing online resources, government employment websites, and targeted job search strategies, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect forensic nursing position to match your skills and interests.

The subsequent sections will share practical tips and resources for job search strategies and networking opportunities that can aid in navigating the job market and finding the best forensic nursing opportunities for your career goals.

Job Search Strategies

Forensic nursing positions and updates on the latest job openings in the field can be found through online resources like The Nurse Job Board, Nursing Network, and Indeed. In addition to online resources, government websites like the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN), Pennsylvania State Civil Service Commission, State of Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), Colorado Government Jobs, and Missouri Department of Mental Health provide listings of forensic nursing positions.

Utilizing nursing job boards that specialize in forensic nursing positions, considering starting as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) to gain experience in forensic nursing, and examining local government employment websites for available forensic nursing job openings are all effective strategies for locating forensic nursing positions. These strategies can assist you in finding and applying for forensic nursing jobs in your area.

Networking and Professional Development

Forensic nurses can find it advantageous to network and engage in professional development opportunities as it helps them expand their professional network and stay connected with others in the field. The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) sponsors events such as the Celebrating Forensic Nurses Mixer and offers networking possibilities through their membership. Additionally, conferences and webinars dedicated to forensic nursing provide opportunities for networking and staying informed of the latest advancements in the field.

Forensic nurses may pursue continuing education courses provided by organizations like:

  • the International Association of Forensic Nurses
  • specialized training programs such as the Texas A&M Health Center of Excellence in Forensic Nursing
  • certification programs like the Forensic Nursing certificate offered by UC Riverside Extension

These professional development opportunities can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher salaries, and more career opportunities in the field of forensic nursing.

Challenges and Rewards of Forensic Nursing

The field of forensic nursing, while both challenging and rewarding, requires resilience and a strong sense of purpose. Working with victims of violence and trauma can take an emotional toll, making it essential for forensic nurses to develop effective coping strategies and self-care practices. In the face of these challenges, the rewards of forensic nursing are immense, as these healthcare professionals make a significant difference in the lives of victims and the pursuit of justice.

The subsequent sections will discuss in more detail the challenges and rewards of forensic nursing, focusing on coping with emotional stress and the impact of forensic nurses on their patients and society.

Coping with Emotional Stress

Management of emotional stress, arising from working with victims of violence, interprofessional conflicts, increased workload, and emotionally-charged patient interactions, is a must for forensic nurses. Developing effective coping strategies and self-care practices is essential to maintain well-being and prevent burnout. Some recommended coping strategies include engaging in activities like exercise, prayer, meditation, and mindfulness, as well as connecting with other forensic nurses and speaking with sexual assault advocates.

Failure to effectively manage emotional stress can have serious consequences, including:

  • Decreased job satisfaction
  • Heightened psychological distress
  • Reduced energy and work efficiency
  • Unfavorable patient outcomes

By prioritizing self-care and utilizing adaptive coping strategies, forensic nurses can maintain their well-being and continue to provide exceptional care to their patients.

Making a Difference

Forensic nurses make a significant difference in the lives of victims and the pursuit of justice, despite the challenges. They provide compassionate care to those who have experienced trauma or are victims of crime, offering patient-centered, trauma-informed care that includes medical treatment, documentation of injuries, and support throughout the legal process. By combining their nursing skills with specialized knowledge of law enforcement and legal procedures, forensic nurses advocate for the well-being of their patients and contribute to the justice system.

Forensic nursing contributes to a safer and more compassionate society through:

  • Violence prevention
  • Social justice efforts
  • Collecting and preserving evidence for court
  • Providing trauma-informed care
  • Recognizing signs of human trafficking
  • Aiding in the rehabilitation of prisoners

This rewarding career offers an opportunity for healthcare professionals to make a lasting impact on the lives of victims and the broader community.

Best Forensic Education and Certification Programs

Penn State

Currently Penn Sate offers an online, 12-credit forensic nursing certificate. Participants in this program will learn how to document, collect, and analyze evidence from delicate crimes, while being sensitive to the legal and ethical considerations of the field. This undergraduate certificate helps prepare students for a variety of careers including medical examining, nursing in a correctional institution, and becoming a legal nurse consultant.

  • Campus: Online
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: ACEN
  • Tuition: $584 per credit or $7,129 for 12+ credits
  • Minimum time commitment: 12 credits
  • Degree requirements: Associate’s or BSN, RN License
  • Programs and Certifications: Certificate in Nursing Forensics
  • http://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/degrees-and-certificates/forensic-nursing-certificate/overview

Drexel University

Drexel University offers a very unique post-baccalaureate certification in forensic trends and issues in contemporary heath care. This one year interdisciplinary program aims to prepare students to conduct targeted and sensitive assessment of victims and offenders of interpersonal violence and other crime, and also to provide appropriate clinical and medico-legal responses. Upon completion of the certificate, graduates are prepared to deal with situations involving both victims and offenders in a variety of settings.

  • Campus: Online
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Tuition:
  • Minimum time commitment: 9 credits
  • Degree requirements: BSN
  • Programs and Certifications: Certificate in Forensic Trends and Issues in Contemporary Healthcare
  • http://drexel.edu/cnhp/academics/post-baccalaureate/Certificate-PB-Forensic-Trends-and-Issues-in-Contemporary-Healthcare/

The University of California at Riverside (UCR) Extension

The University of California at Riverside (UCR) Extension offers an online professional certificate program in forensic nursing. IN as little as 9 months and only 14 units of required coursework and students can be qualified and certified to work as a forensic nurse. Areas of focus in the program are areas such as forensic approaches to blunt force and firearm injuries, courtroom testimony by a health care specialist, and forensic approaches to mental health assessments, UCR prepares its students for the delicate work of identifying, collecting, and documenting evidence of traumatic injuries and communicating the findings to multidisciplinary teams. These courses also qualify for the California Board of Registered Nursing’s continuing education which is required to maintain licensure.

  • Campus: Online
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: ACEN
  • Tuition: $4,200
  • Minimum time commitment: 9 to 18 months
  • Degree requirements: LVN, LPN, or RN
  • Programs and Certifications: Professional Certificate in Forensic Nursing
  • https://www.extension.ucr.edu/certificates/9698403/healthcare/professionaldevelopment/forensicnursing

Duquesne University

Duquesne University offers an online certificate program in forensic nursing prepares advanced practice nurses for this line of work following their masters program. The program is comprised of 24 credits in courses such as pathophysiology for advanced practice nurses, forensic science and the legal system, and a capstone project for students to conduct their own original research thus contributing to the advancement of this specialized discipline.

  • Campus: Online
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Tuition: Contact Program
  • Minimum time commitment: 24 credits
  • Degree requirements: MSN
  • Programs and Certifications: Forensic Nursing Certificate
  • http://www.duq.edu/academics/schools/nursing/graduate-programs/post-masters-certificates/forensic-nursing

Please note that some online programs require limited on-campus requirements.

Online Advanced Degrees in Forensic Nursing

What Do I Need Before I Enroll In An Advanced Program

    • Current, unrestricted RN license
    • BSN from accredited school
    • Prerequisites (program specific)
    • Minimum GPA (program specific)
    • Letters of Recommendation
    • Entrance Essay
    • Resume
    • Any required test scores (MAT, GRE)
    • Valid CPR certification
    • Official Transcripts
    • Application

Accredited MSN Forensic Specialty Programs

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State University located in Massachusetts offers an online master of science in nursing (MSN) degree in forensic nursing. This 39-credit program is an entirely online educational track with classes including scientific foundations for forensic nursing interventions, caring for victims, and a supervised clinical practicum to be completed at an approved preceptor site. Graduates of this program qualify to be employed as a Death investigator, Legal Nurse Consultant, Medico-legal Investigator, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), among other areas within this specialized area of healthcare.

      • Campus: Online
      • Type: Public
      • Accreditation: CCNE
      • Tuition: $319 per credit
      • Minimum time commitment: 39 Credits
      • Degree requirements: BSN
      • Programs and Certifications: MSN in Forensic Nursing
      • http://www.fitchburgstate.edu/academics/graduate-online-continuing-education/graduate-programs/master-of-science-in-nursing-forensic-nursing-online/

Duquesne University

The MSN program at Duquesne University offers a broad-based curriculum that includes hands-on, supervised clinical work at an approved preceptor, completion of a capstone project, and didactic instruction in areas such as criminal law and the courts, health care ethics, and forensic science and the legal system. Our master’s in forensic nursing program teaches skills for healing wounds, treating trauma patients, as well as skills for helping law enforcement and legal professionals do their jobs effectively. In addition to this program Duquesne offers one of the few PhD and DNP forensic programs in the country.

      • Campus: Online
      • Type: Public
      • Accreditation: CCNE
      • Tuition: Contact Student Accounts
      • Minimum time commitment: 2 years
      • Degree requirements: BSN
      • Programs and Certifications: MSN in Forensics, PhD in Forensics, DNP in Forensics
      • http://www.duq.edu/academics/schools/nursing/graduate-programs/master-science-nursing/forensic-nursing

Cleveland State University

The MSN in Forensic Nursing program track combines the art and science of nursing, the law, and forensic science, to adequately prepare participants to provide care to forensic patients in criminal and civil legal matters. Coursework for this program include classes such as forensic methodologies, theory development in nursing, and the legal system. Students have the option to conduct original research through the completion of a thesis.

      • Campus: Online
      • Type: Public
      • Accreditation: CCNE
      • Tuition: Contact School
      • Minimum time commitment: 34 Credits
      • Degree requirements: BSN, RN license, GPA of 3.0
      • Programs and Certifications: MSN in Forensics
      • http://www.csuohio.edu/nursing/graduate-programs/forensic-nursing-masters-science-in-nursing-1

Traditional On-Campus Forensic Nursing Programs

Binghamton University

Located in New York, Binghamton University offers a post-baccalaureate certificate in forensic health which can be ideal for entry-level instruction in the basics. There are currently four specializations available in forensic health: focus on adults, focus on children, forensic health across the lifespan, and forensic health and medicolegal death investigation.

      • Campus: Online
      • Type: Public
      • Accreditation: CCNE
      • Tuition: Contact College
      • Minimum time commitment: 9 credit hours
      • Degree requirements: BSN
      • Programs and Certifications: Forensic Health Advanced Certification
      • https://www.binghamton.edu/dson/graduate/certificate/forensic-health.html

The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS)

The intersection of patient care and medico-legal system is where you find forensic nurses and their niche of practice. In past years there was a gap between the office of the medical examiner, the police department and the hospital emergency room or hospitalized patient. Now forensic nursing bridges that gap with professional nurses trained to not only care for victims, but properly recognize, acquire and collect forensic evidence necessary for criminal investigations where injury, trauma or violent crimes have occurred.

Whether you are a seasoned student in an MSN program or a little newer to the field of nursing as a undergraduate student, UCCS has a forensic certification program to fit your level. Each program is 12 credit hours. The program designed for undergraduate students provides courses such as practice paradigms in forensic nursing, substance abuse, and the many facets of child maltreatment. The other program is designed for post graduate certification for nurses with some nursing experience. It includes classes such as healthcare policy, ethics, and legal aspects of forensic nursing.

      • Campus: Colorado Springs, CO
      • Type: Public
      • Accreditation: CCNE
      • Tuition:
      • Minimum time commitment: 12 credit hours
      • Degree requirements:
      • Programs and Certifications: Undergraduate and Graduate Forensic Certification
      • http://www.uccs.edu/bethel/programs/extended-studies/forensic-nursing-education/forensic-nursing-certificate.html

Xavier University

Students admitted to the MSN program that choose the forensics track will gain advanced study of forensic nursing practice. Forensic nursing is the application of science and the art of nursing to both criminal and civil investigations and legal matters according to the American Board of Forensic Nursing. This specialty prepares nurses to receive further education and extend their clinical roles in areas such as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, Forensic Psychiatric Nurse, Legal Nurse Consultant, Forensic Nursing Death Investigator and/or Nurse Coroner. Participants receive individualized education and in-depth knowledge in application of nursing principles in both criminal and civil investigations and legal matters.

The master of science in nursing (MSN) degree in forensic nursing at Xavier generally takes two years to complete. With rigorous coursework in criminalistics, interprofessional collaboration, and foundations of forensic nursing, Xavier prepares its graduates for careers in forensic psychiatric nursing, legal nurse consulting, and death investigation. Another option offered at Xavier is a dual master’s degree, an MSN can be pursued jointly with a master of science in criminal justice (MSCJ) degree.

      • Campus: Cincinnati
      • Type: Public
      • Accreditation: CCNE
      • Tuition: Contact Program
      • Minimum time commitment: 10 credit hours in addition to 26 credit hours of MSN
      • Degree requirements: BSN admitted to MSN program
      • Programs and Certifications: MSN Forensic Certification/Specialization
      • http://www.xavier.edu/nursing-graduate-programs/Forensic-Nursing.cfm

Boston College (BC)

Boston College offers their MS program to RN’s with an associate’s degree, Nurses with a BSN and also those with bachelor’s degrees in disciplines other than nursing. The program is designed to offer a variety of tracks, each associated with an advanced nursing patient population, and also specialize in areas like forensic nursing. Student’s benefit from an evidence-based, experience-driven curriculum that give them both the skills and confidence to excel in the field of forensic nursing. Note that students interested in the forensic nursing specialization remember that this program offers forensic courses as electives that they may take as they work toward their MS degree. Graduates will have a solid foundation built from supervised clinical experience, they will be prepared to work in emergency and acute care, adult protective services, medicolegal death investigation, and related fields.

      • Campus: Boston
      • Type: Public
      • Accreditation: ACEN
      • Tuition: Contact Program
      • Minimum time commitment: 2 years
      • Degree requirements: RN, BSN, or Bachelor Degree in another field
      • Programs and Certifications: Forensic Electives as part of MSN
      • http://www.bostoncollege.org/schools/son/programs/masters/specialties/forensicnursing.html

Forensic Nursing School Program Accreditation

Make sure program is accredited by on of the following:

  • CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education)
  • ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing)
  • HLC-NCA (Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools)
  • MSCHE (Middle States Commission on Higher Education)
  • WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges)
  • NWCCU (New England Association of Schools and Colleges)
  • NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges )
  • SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools)

Verify accreditation of the programs prior to enrolling. Programs that have not earned accredited status lose credibility, as will participants of such programs. For a school to earn accredited status, agencies look at factors such as program outcomes, quality of curricula, institutional finances, student-to-instructor ratios, and condition of physical facilities in order to gauge the overall effectiveness of the program.

Checklist Prior to Seeking Professional Forensic Certification

Upon completion of an accredited forensic nursing program it would be highly beneficial for one to also seek professional certification. These additional certifications can enhance one’s employment prospects as well as credibility in a court setting.

  • Current, unrestricted RN license
  • Graduate Degree in nursing
  • Minimum of 2 years experience as a registered nurse
  • Verified 200 hours experience in forensic nursing
  • 30 hours completed of continued education
  • Original research paper, professional service, or delivering presentations

Upon completing those requirements Forensic Nurses may contact The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) that is over providing the advanced forensic nursing board certification (AFN-BC) and they will evaluate the candidate’s portfolio for advanced certification.

Summary

Forensic nursing is an exceptional and rewarding career that combines the worlds of healthcare and criminal justice, providing specialized care to victims of violence and assisting in legal proceedings. The journey to becoming a forensic nurse involves completing the necessary education, obtaining licensure, gaining experience in the field, and exploring diverse roles such as sexual assault nurse examiners, forensic psychiatric nurses, and death investigators or nurse coroners.

Despite the challenges, forensic nurses make a significant difference in the lives of victims and the pursuit of justice. By providing compassionate care, collecting evidence, and working closely with law enforcement and legal professionals, these healthcare heroes contribute to a safer and more compassionate society. If you’re ready to embark on this life-changing journey, take the first step by exploring the educational requirements and diverse roles within forensic nursing, and set your sights on a meaningful and rewarding career in this unique field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do forensic nurses go to crime scenes?

Yes, forensic nurses are called to crime scenes to collect evidence such as digitized photographs of injuries, blood samples, semen, hair strands for DNA analysis, bullets, and clothing. They may also be appointed as nurse coroners or death investigators to analyze the scene and examine the body in the event of a suspicious death.

Do forensic nurses do autopsy?

Yes, forensic nurses do perform autopsy as part of their responsibilities which include assisting physicians with the postmortem examination of deceased people and collecting evidence from corpses, clothing, and the crime scene.

How much do forensic nurses make in the US?

Forensic nurses in the US typically earn an annual salary of $70,000 or more. Indeed’s last data compilation from October 2021 reported a median forensic nurse salary across the country of $70,069, while salaries can range from $17,203 to $456,524 with a median salary of $82,170. Salaries below the 25th percentile were outliers, at $40,000, while salaries above the 75th percentile were even higher at $68,500.

What is a forensic nurse do?

Forensic nurses specialize in providing comprehensive care and forensic medical exams to victims of violence, while displaying sensitivity and proficiency when collecting evidence and testifying in court.

What are the educational requirements to become a forensic nurse?

To become a forensic nurse, you must have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).