What you Need to Become a Forensic Nurse

Forensic nurses specialize in caring for patients who are the victims of trauma, violence, and abuse. They have a foundation in the criminal justice system as well as nursing. They are on the front lines when victims of crimes need help the most, providing sensitive, compassionate care while meticulously collecting relevant evidence that may be needed later in court. Some forensic nurses choose to specialize in sexual assault/trauma by becoming certified as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE).

Becoming a Forensic Nurse

Those who are interested in forensic nursing should have an interest in not only direct patient care, but also in being a patient advocate. They should also have an interest in criminal justice and the legal system. Strong attention to detail is also a quality valued in forensic nursing. Forensic nurses are exposed to emotionally draining and potentially disturbing cases, so having a stable work-life balance and support from family and friends is essential.

What Are the Educational Requirements for a Forensic Nurse?

Completion of an accredited nursing program is required. Aspiring forensic nurses can obtain an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). While a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) is not required, it may make a nurse more hirable. Additionally, specialty forensic nursing graduate degrees are required for certain types of forensic nursing certifications.

After completion of a nursing program, successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam is required for licensure as a registered nurse.

A nurse may choose to practice as a registered nurse or advance to a nurse practitioner role specializing in forensic nursing.

Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

Obtaining certification in forensic nursing is highly recommended. While not necessarily required, certification demonstrates a commitment to the profession and a higher standard of care within the field of forensic nursing.

Registered nurses and advanced practice nurses can complete a formal forensic nurse specialist program. The American Institute of Health Care Professionals offers comprehensive training in forensic nursing to include 250 contact hours of continuing education. The requirements for this program include:

• Completion of formal training as a registered nurse
• A current/valid RN license

While an Advanced Forensic Nursing certification used to be offered through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the ANCC retired it in late 2017.

Where Do Forensic Nurses Work?

Forensic nurses can work in a variety of patient care areas. In the hospital setting, forensic nurses may work in the following departments:

• Emergency rooms
• Urgent care departments assisting with trauma cases (intentional and unintentional trauma), injuries, and assault/abuse

In the community setting, forensic nurses may find work with:

• Coroners
• Medical examiners
• Pathologists
• Local government agencies
• Non-profit organizations that serve trauma/abuse survivors

Forensic Nurse FAQs

A Forensic Nurse may be subpoenaed (ordered to attend court) under two circumstances:

• As a “Fact Witness”- This involves the forensic nurse that delivered care to the patient/victim following the crime including interviewing, evidence collection, injury identification, and evaluation. This nurse worked specifically with the patient and can attest to the documentation they have provided. It is important to note that as a fact witness, the nurse may testify about anything observed or said during the exam but cannot provide an opinion on the causation of any injuries. For example, a nurse that collected evidence such as swabs for DNA can testify regarding his or her methods used to collect that evidence. The nurse may be asked to describe in detail how it was collected or stored.
• As an “Expert Witness”- This designation is achieved after a forensic nurse has attained a high level of experience. It qualifies a nurse to provide special knowledge while testifying as to whether or not an injury is consistent with the patient’s account of the assault. An expert witness may not be able to speak to the evidence collected and presented in court but can provide general information about current practice and protocols that are based on experience and medical literature.

What Does a Forensic Nurse Do?

Forensic nurses have many duties that may differ based on where they work. Forensic nurses basically wear two hats — a nurse hat and a law enforcement hat. This unique, dual role ensures that victims of a crime receive the best quality care during a very emotionally and physically trying time. Victims of sexual assault or battery may not trust caregivers, or they may be afraid to report to law enforcement. Forensic nurses on the front lines can act as both caregivers and liaisons, limiting the number of interactions which, in turn, can help build trust with victims.

Forensic nurses who work in emergency departments/urgent care may:

• Take a thorough patient history
• Collect evidence such as debris, bodily fluids, bullets
• Perform physical examinations
• Photograph injuries/evidence
• Perform wound care
• Interview the patient and/or family
• Report victims of assault/abuse to local law enforcement and Child/Adult Protective Services

Forensic nurses working in the community may:

• Take blood/tissue samples
• Respond to the scene of accident/death
• Photograph injuries/wounds
• Photograph crime scenes
• Collect evidence
• Assist with autopsies
• Act as a deputy coroner

What Are the Roles and Duties of a Forensic Nurse?

Whether forensic nurses are employed in the hospital or community setting, working with deceased or living patients, their roles are the same. These include:

• Collect data and complete thorough documentation
• Act as a liaison between victims of assault and their families
• Act as a liaison with law enforcement and social services
• Testify in court
• Provide comfort to victims and families
• Provide resources to victims and families including mental health counseling, shelters, etc.