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How to Become A Forensic Nursing

Forensic nurses are healthcare professionals who investigate trauma victims in order to find out if their wounds resulted from neglect or abuse.  Most of them are RNs with graduate degree or certificate in forensic nursing. These nurses work on cases of child abuse or suspected sexual assault. Once they complete their investigation, the results are forwarded to law enforcement agencies. They also help law enforcement agents build cases against suspected criminals and collect data. These professionals also present their findings to jury members when required.
 

How to Become a Forensic Nurse
To become a forensic nurse, students need to earn a graduate level degree in nursing. Obtaining a certificate with focus on forensic nursing can also help students get into this field. A certificate program may take up to a year to complete while a graduate degree in nursing can be completed in 1-2 years.
Some of the courses students will cover in these programs include healthcare management, health assessment, leadership and community health. Students may also cover topics such as trauma and assault assessment, domestic violence, documentation procedures and evidence collection methodologies. They are also required to participate in clinical experiences. Registered Nurses are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination and maintain a valid license as well.

Career Prospects and Forensic Nurse Salary

The employment outlook for nurses is very bright as there are thousands of new jobs available for these healthcare professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities in this field are expected to increase by 22% from 2008-2018. For this reason, pursuing a career as a forensic nurse can prove to be very beneficial. California, Hawaii, Alaska, Massachusetts and Maryland include some of the states that have the best opportunities for nurses. On average, these healthcare professionals can earn somewhere around $75,000 every year. Besides, they can also enjoy a number of benefits such as medical, dental and life insurance.
 

Online Forensic Nursing Programs

Students who would like to become a forensic nurse but cannot attend regular classes can get into distance learning programs. These programs are highly flexible, allowing students to study at a schedule that compliments their personal routine. Working professionals who want to make a career switch can also get into the online graduate program in this field and obtain a degree without giving up their existing employment.

 

 

Ask an Expert

Q:What is the basic forensic nurse salary?

A:Nurses can be found working in all kinds of specialty areas and healthcare organizations. Forensic nurses are professionals who care for victims of crimes and provide clinical treatment. According to the US bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses make a median income of $64,690 per year. The exact income level depends upon a number of factors such as type or organization/employer, qualification, and work experience.

Q:Is a forensic nursing salary high?

A:The income level of forensic nurses will depend upon a number of factors such as the following: experience, qualifications, license, specialization area, and organization or employer. These professionals are required work with victims of crime and violence. For more information about the career prospects, job duties, and income level, browse through our page.

Q:After becoming a Forensic Nurse, what kinds of patients will I have to work with?

A:Forensic nurses are professionals who provide healthcare services to victims of crime and assault. These nurses may be required to help patients suffering from trauma and abuse. Not only do forensic nurses have familiarity with clinical procedures, but also have knowledge about the legal field and criminology. Take a look at our page for more information.

Q:What is the curriculum like of online forensic Nursing Programs?

A:Online degrees in forensic nursing are offered by many schools. This program is covered online with through videos, tutorials, online lectures, classroom conferencing, and more. Students may also have to take a few classes at the campus for practical training. It is important to remember that the coursework may vary slightly from school to school.

Q:Must forensic nursing requirements be completed for a career in this field?

A:The requirements for becoming a forensic nurse will vary from state to state. You can get information about these requirements form the nursing board or licensing authority in your state. In most cases, forensic nurses must hold a valid certification in the specialty area and must also complete the minimum training hours. Browse through our page for detail.

Q:What is forensic nursing? Can you define it?

A:Forensic nursing is a specialty field that involves the provision of healthcare services to victims of crime and abuse. Forensic nurses must work with such patients and cater to their emotional and physical abnormalities. The career can be demanding as such patients are sensitive and must be dealt with care. Take a look at our page for detail.

Q:Forensic nursing schools are offering what programs and degrees?

A:Forensic nursing schools typically offer programs at all levels of post-secondary education. These include degree programs at associate, bachelor, and masters level. Students can also opt for certifications and training programs in forensic nursing. It is recommended that you get information about the program offerings from the prospective nursing schools.

Q:What areas are covered in forensic nursing degree?

A:A forensic nursing degree will cover a range of topics such as the following: forensic lab, nursing and healthcare, forensics in nursing, fundamentals of forensics practice, nursing ethics, and more. The curriculum will also include a number of practice-oriented courses that will help students build skill. It is important to remember that the curriculum may vary slightly from college to college.

Q:A forensic nurse practitioner basically does what?

A:A forensic nurse practitioner is a professional who is responsible for providing analysis regarding crime scene evidence and treating victims of crime. These nurses may be asked to provide testimony in court, and assist other legal professionals. Job duties may include treating victims of sexual assault, forensic testing of blood samples, hair samples, and other tissue.

Q:How long does it take to become a forensic nurse and what need to be taken?

A:The time needed to become a forensic nurse will depend upon the academic route you choose. In most cases, individuals are required to complete a nursing degree such as the RN or LPN, then further pursue a BSN degree. After this step is completed, students must enroll in a MSN degree with specialization in forensic nursing. There are also a number of certifications available in forensic nursing.

Q:The typical job duties of a forensic nurse examiner include what?

A:Forensic nurse examiners are professionals who conduct scientific evaluations of evidence. This evidence is used to aid law enforcement trials and investigations. The job duties usually include: collecting body tissue samples and blood samples, taking footprints and fingerprints, classifying materials collected from the crime scene, using scientific methods to analyze evidence, and more.

Q:Can you tell me about the foundational knowledge I will need to qualify for a forensic nurse certification?

A:To qualify for a forensic nurse certification, you must first earn a degree in this field, and complete all the training requirements. You must have foundational knowledge and must be able to recognize domestic violence and assault-related injuries, document forensic analysis appropriately, collect evidence through standard protocol, and must have insight regarding the social, ethical, and legal aspects of the field.

Q:After completion of forensic nurse programs, what kinds of roles can I qualify for?

A:After you have successfully completed a forensic nurse program, and have a valid license, you can choose from a variety of job roles in healthcare. These typically include: assault or abuse nurse examiner, correctional facility nurse, emergency room forensic nurse, nurse coroner, forensic clinical nurse specialist, medical examiner nurse investigator, and legal nurse consultant.

Q:Can you tell me what is forensic all about and what is the forensic nurses salary?

A:Forensic nursing is a specialty field that deals with treatment of victims of crime. Nurses who specialize in forensics have a sound understanding of the legal system as well as healthcare. The demand for forensic nurses is steady. The income level will vary from place to place and will depend upon various other factors such as qualification, skill, and employer organization.

Q:Forensic nursing salaries can be determined by which factors?

A:The income level of a forensic nurse will depend upon a variety of factors. These nurses are trained to provide healthcare treatment to victims of crime. They are hired by all kinds of healthcare institutions such as hospitals and rehabilitation centers. The income level can only bet determined by factors such as employer organization, level of skill, degree, and state.

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