How to Become Involved In the Nursing Forensic Nursing Field
At the present time, an estimated 8,500 nurses who are employed as forensic nurses, work full time investigating accidental or suspicious deaths, as well as treating violent offenders at many psychiatric institutions. This profession is rapidly becoming a major focus of the US legal system due to the alarming rate of increase in violent crimes. Forensic nursing involves all of the basic clinical nursing training that also functions in tandem with law enforcement, and involves the investigation of victims suffering from some violent crime. It entails working with victims of elder or spousal abuse, sexual assault, child molestation or abuse, and other suspicious causes of death.
The training that a forensic nurse receives will allow her/him to be able to quickly and accurately obtain evidence that is normally used in the trial of the perpetrator of the crime. Often times the forensic nurse is called upon to testify in court on her/his findings, and has assisted in bringing many criminals to justice. Forensic nurses are generally employed by coroners & medical examiners, insurance companies, health care facilities, and attorneys. The highly trained forensic nurse can and does play a very important part of a court room trial, and on more than one occasion, their testimony on their evidence findings has helped to win a guilty verdict.
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Nurses that have a desire to become a forensic nurse are required to take additional training, and also to be certified for different areas that they may work in, such as pediatric or psychiatric nursing. There are degree programs available in campus settings as well as online courses that can be taken to fit their schedule. Once trained as a forensic nurse, and after acquiring experience, can lead to an additional career as a legal nurse consultant.
Forensic nursing, a few years ago, was not readily recognized. However, there now is an increased demand for these nurses that are trained with these specialized skills. The legal system especially, has seen what a highly qualified forensic nurse can add to their case, often times making the difference between a conviction or an acquittal. This profession will continue to make a difference, not only in the court room, but in the community as well. As the various schools improve their curriculum and certification process, it will only help the forensic nurse to be better trained to assist victims of abuse and other violent crimes. If you have a sincere concern for victims of these crimes, we encourage you to consider a career in forensic nursing, a rewarding and satisfying career. You can make a difference!
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