Forensic Nurse

Forensic NurseBy: Janssen Blaine A. Prado

What is a forensic nurse?A forensic nurse is a nurse who provides specialized care for patients who are victims and perpetrators of trauma (both intentional and unintentional).They play an integral role in bridging the gap between law and medicine.

Are there different areas of forensic nurses?Forensic nurses work in a variety of fields, including:Sexual Assault ( Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners or SANE)Interpersonal Violence (domestic violence, elder abuse/neglect, child abuse/neglect)CorrectionsDeath Investigation

Where do forensic nurses practice?In the United States, forensic nurses most frequently work in hospitals, community anti-violence programs, medical examiners offices, corrections institutions and psychiatric hospitals.Forensic nurses may also be called on in mass disasters or community crisis situations.

$alaryA forensic nursing salary starts at around $26 per hour and can reach as high as $100.Forensic nursing salary depends on several factors, including where you choose to work, your education level and what field of forensic nursing you specialize in.

BenefitsPeople who choose careers in the medical field generally have some of the best health benefits of any profession. The kinds of benefits you should expect include:full medical coverage for you and your familyfull or partial dental and vision coverage401(k) retirement plandisability insurance and paid time offsubsidized travel

Education RequirementsSince forensic nursing degree and certificate programs are graduate-level, individuals will most likely need to complete a bachelor's degree program in nursing instead of an associate's degree program.

Requirements to Obtain PositionA forensic nurse must first be a registered nurse (RN).2 years of experience working as a licensed RN.Should be trained in handling and collecting evidence such as hairs, fibers, and swabs of fluids for DNA testing

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