Guidelines for Forensic Nurses

Forensic Nursing: Scopes and Standards of Practice, a reference book for those interested in the field of forensic nursing, has recently been co-written by the International Association of Forensic Nurses and the American Nurses Association. This book is the first of its kind, describing in full the role of the forensic nurse.

The history of forensic nursing is a short one. Almost years ago, the term was created as a consequence of the first national convention of sexual assault nurses. The International Association of Forensic Nurses was officially recognized in 1996 as a credited organization, aiding in the popularization of forensic nursing. Forensic nursing is born from a broad field, and necessitates knowledge of nursing and forensic science, in addition to healthcare abilities and patient care.

Forensic nurses are needed in this capacity often after huge catastrophes, like Hurricane Katrina. Most work in the emergency room of a hospital, and primarily check for cases of abuse or violence. These nurses are responsible for the early cataloging of evidence, such as photographs of injuries believed to be a result of abuse. The primary job of the forensic nurse is the evaluation of patients who have suffered sexual assault. The forensic nurse is responsible for finding evidence and talking to the victim.

Forensic nurses are not limited to the hospital. Some may work in the morgue identifying bodies. This job becomes increasingly important around times of national disaster, like after Hurricane Katrina. Many forensic nurses work as counselors for sexual abuse victims or as legal counselors for testimonies. Because forensic nurses are trained in evidence collection, they are one of the best tools for many abuse cases in court.

Because the forensic nurse's job extends beyond the bounds of hospital or patient care, the additional expectations need to be explained. Forensic Nursing: Most forensic nurses work with sexual assault victims.

Forensic Nursing is defined by six central traits of nursing practice and nine standards of professional performance that have been outlined by nursing experts from the American Nurses' Association and the International Association of Forensic Nurses. The guide is divided into the who, what, when, where and how of nursing practice. Forensic nursing has not been around for long.

This guidebook is a condensed reference tool for nurses and legal professionals alike, bringing professional accountability to a fairly new field. This reference book helps to bring credibility to the field of forensic nursing.

Forensic Nursing: Scope and Standards will enter nursing schools as a formal textbook in many forensic nursing programs. The reference book is a must have for nurses either in the field or for those who want to join it, those that supervise forensic nurses, and for those who work with forensic nurses and want to understand their practice better.

Become a Certified Forensic Nurse

The following schools offer criminal justice degrees which can help you gain the skills to become an Forensic NurseInvestigator. We recommend getting information from several colleges so you can compare the programs, costs, time commitments and financial aid options.

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