Job opportunities in the forensic nursing field are likely to be robust for those who want to pursue the career path. Although forensic nursing is a relatively new field of nursing, its job growth forecast shows promising demand for forensic nurses. At this pace, 221,900 new jobs are expected to be added in the same decade. Stay up-to-date with the latest articles, student stories, and guides from WGU. Each specialized forensic nurse has specific requirements that must be met. Helping victims of sexual assault and partner violence can be heartwrenching, yet also rewarding in helping people give voice to their experiences to lessen future crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. They often work with people in various stages of shock, so patience and diligence are essential. Forensic nurses basically wear two hats a nurse hat and a law enforcement hat. However, a BSN does make a nurse eligible for more jobs over time. The average annual salary for registered nurses is around $70,000. Want to see all the degrees WGU has to offer? By collecting and preserving evidence after traumatic events, forensic nurses can care for patients immediate medical needs and bring perpetrators of physical sexual assault crimes to justice with irrefutable DNA evidence. As the demand for these specialized nurses increases, career opportunities expand in other settings, such as psychiatric clinics, correctional facilities, and emergency government services. Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree? Once the RN has completed this specialized training, they can become certified through IAFN. Although there are many reasons to pursue a career in forensic nursing, a stable and comfortable salary is undoubtedly one of them. Resources and articles written by professionals and other nurses like you. The cost of living in the location of the position is an important factor and higher salaries often correlate with higher costs of living. This profession is expected to grow at a rate of 16 percent between the years of 2014 and 2024. Which college fits you? Some common places forensic nurses are employed include general hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, medical examiner and coroner offices, community anti-violence organizations, correctional institutions, and community crisis centers. This work can be emotionally trying,, and nurses wanting work in this field should be exceptionally patient and compassionate. Upon completing this exam, nurses will apply for licensing through their state board of nursing. Additionally, specialty forensic nursing graduate degrees are required for certain types of forensic nursing certifications. IT Certifications Included in WGU Degrees, See all Health & Nursing Bachelor's Degrees, View all Nursing Post-Master's Certificates, Nursing EducationPost Master's Certificate, Leadership and ManagementPost Master's Certificate. 6 Min Read. Forensic nurse examiners have a variety of responsibilities such as treating and educating patients, examining prospective suspects as part of an investigation, providing crisis intervention to patients, using forensic photography to recover evidence, and referring patients to ongoing programs. Sexual assault nurse examiners must understand victimization issues, possess investigative and counseling skills, and be sensitive to victims needs. Traditional nursing responsibilities will usually include recording vitals, administering medication and treatment, talking to patients about their health history, assisting doctors in their procedures, and more. Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) M.A. This nurse worked specifically with the patient and can attest to the documentation they have provided. Being a forensic nurse examiner requires more than receiving a degree in nursing. The average salary for registered nurses in 2020 was $80,010 annually (BLS May 2020) with the following percentiles: As with most jobs, a forensic nurses salary will vary considerably based on several different factors, mainly that nurses training and experience. There are two choices for certification, which include: Certification is granted upon successfully passing the required SANE examination (either SANE-A or SANE-P; some RNs choose to get dual certifications to treat both populations). Find out how different WGU is about personalizing and supporting your education. All Rights Reserved. Step 7: Earn forensic nursing certification While professional certification is not a legal requirement for nurses working in the forensic specialty, certification such as the SANE certification program through the IAFN can help demonstrate ones expertise to potential employers and ultimately career advancement. 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. However, forensic nurses earn a median salary of $81,800, and the top 10 percent of forensic nurses can earn up to $140,000. Step 3: Become a registered nurse (less than one year) After graduating from college, nurses must sit for the NCLEX exam. A bachelors degree typically requires four years to complete, while an associates degree can be completed in less time. Nursing Nursing Informatics (BSN-to-MSN Program) M.S. Science Education (Secondary Physics) M.A. Nurses must complete at least 300 hours of this training for a maximum of three years to be eligible for SANE certification. Forensic nurses also must have exceptional communication skills as they ask victims to relive traumatic details, perform medical exams on traumatized people, and communicate with medical professionals, law enforcement, and other victims or witnesses to crimes. According to PayScale.com, forensic nurses can earn between $46,509 to $90,960 annually. The IAFN offers two Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certifications for nurses working with adults, adolescents, and children and in 2020, 2,136 nurses held one or both of these qualifications (IAFN 2020). Additionally, forensic nurses need to have relevant certifications that apply to their specialized field of choice. Some common forensic nursing specializations include sexual assault, medical-legal consulting, death investigation, and forensic psychiatric nursing. Forensic nurse education requirements. A nurse may choose to practice as a registered nurse or advance to a nurse practitioner role specializing in forensic nursing. These skills are vital to their success and can be hugely important for legal cases in helping victims. Home / Nursing Careers & Specialties / Forensic Nurse. Step 4: Explore clinical practice (at least two years) RNs should work in a clinical setting for at least two years before pursuing the forensic specialty. Many forensic nurses are the nurses at correctional facilities so they can help victims of violence, and work with law enforcement in with their forensic needs. Teaching, Science Education (Secondary) M.A. The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) is a professional organization that represents forensic nurses and complementary professions. The number of forensic nurses is growing to meet public health demands. 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. Registered nurses hoping to get into forensic nursing should consider getting certified in a subspecialty. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN Southern New Hampshire University, International Association of Forensic Nurses, Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, American Institute of Health Care Professionals, American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators, Best Forensics & Criminal Justice Degrees (2022), Forensic Nurses Week 2021: An Experts Advocacy Guide. Forensic nursingan area at the intersection of medicine and lawis a specialty only recently recognized by the American Nurses Association (ANA). Correctional facilities. Nursing Leadership and Management (RN to-MSN Program) M.S. By submitting you will receive emails from WGU and can opt-out at any time. View all degrees. Some forensic nurses choose to specialize in sexual assault/trauma by becoming certified as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). In 2020, the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) received 1,028 applications for certification; a 14 percent increase between 2019 and 2020 and a record all-time high for the organization (IAFN 2020). Forensic nursing is not limited to the domains of law and medicine. SANEs are responsible for collecting evidence accurately, treating and evaluating minor injuries, and taking preventative measures, such as preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Nursing Nursing Informatics (RN-to-MSN Program) M.S. Additionally, FNEs may also be responsible for serving victims to assist with crime-related injuries and testifying in court as a fact witness or as an expert. These specializations lead to a wide selection of unique careers in forensic nursing, including a career as a forensic nurse examiner (FNE), sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE), legal nurse consultant, forensic psychiatric nurse, nurse death investigator (NDI), correctional nurse consultant and forensic nurse educator. Forensic nurses specialize in caring for patients who are the victims of trauma, violence, and abuse. Nursing Leadership and Management (BSN-to-MSN Program) M.S. In addition, a nurse death investigator may have to visit crime scenes and attend autopsies. Business Administration, Healthcare Management B.S. Students in high school should do their best to excel in science courses such as biology and chemistry to set themselves up for success. Stay up-to-date with the latest articles, tips, and insights from the team at WGU. Forensic nurses provide an important connection between healthcare and the criminal justice system. For example, RNs with a graduate degree and a nurse practitioner specialty earn an annual salary of $111,840. Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) M.A. The training includes both didactic learning and clinical preceptorships to prepare these RNs for the medical forensic care of patients (either adults or children) who are victims of sexual assault/abuse. As a society, we wave off these low conviction rates as cold cases, but often, the victims rape kit was never tested in the first place. Later on, a SANE may be asked to testify in court regarding the evidence collected. Registered nurses and advanced practice nurses can complete a formal forensic nurse specialist program. Forensic nursing is a relatively new specialty. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) M.A. The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) recommends that forensic nurses should have a variety of skills including an understanding of injury identification and of the legal system and an ability to evaluate situations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not supply forensic nurse salary and employment data but includes them in their projections for all RNs. Business Administration, Accounting B.S. Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN Program) M.S. Cybersecurity and Information Assurance M.S. WGU is an accredited online university offering onlinebachelorsandmastersdegree programs. 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. See all Health & Nursing Master's Degrees, College of Business Admissions Requirements, College of Health Professions Admissions Requirements. Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) B.S. Forensic nurses are needed in more than one work environment. Forensic nurses are an essential part of forensic investigations. Endorsement Preparation, English Language Learning (PreK-12). Teaching, Special Education (K12) M.A. View all blog posts under Forensic Nursing | Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). At WGU, your experience is our obsession! As stated above, in 2020, the IAFN certified 2,136 forensic nurses although registered nurses need not be certified in order to qualify for these positions. Not all forensic nursing is specific to sexual assault. Studies have shown that evidence collected by SANE-certified nurses results in higher prosecution and conviction rates. The majority of a forensic nurses time is spent in a hospital setting, often in an emergency room. These specially trained nurses are highly skilled healthcare providers with specialized training and experience in caring for victims and assisting with criminal investigations. Some cases that may require forensic nursing include bioterrorism, drug and alcohol abuse, suicide and homicide, and tissue and organ donation. It's important to note that RNs interested in training to become SANEs should also consult their state regarding any specific regulations that must be met in their area. Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) B.S. Learning Experience Design and Educational Technology M.S. Psychiatric institutions. Medical examiners office. However, other specialties will have different requirements. Nurses hone many specific skills that help them find success like psychology, crisis intervention, avoiding tampering with evidence, communication, problem solving, and more. They often work with non-profit organizations to help victims as well. Learn more about forensic nursing in the healthcare field, the average salary and job opportunities, and how you can become one. For example, a nurse that collected evidence such as swabs for DNA can testify regarding his or her methods used to collect that evidence. Forensic nurses on the front lines can act as both caregiver and liaisons, limiting the amount of interactions which, in turn, can help build trust with victims. Higher education can be a crucial step in getting a raise or promotion as a nurse. They are also responsible for providing child patients with advice on how to find an outlet for safety as a way to deal with trauma. These nurses receive specialized training to treat survivors of violence and advocate on their behalf. View all blog posts under Master of Science in Nursing | Our focus on your success starts with our focus on four high-demand fields: K12 teaching and education, nursing and healthcare, information technology, and business. Shes taught English to international university students in the United States and Japan for more than a decade and has a masters degree in education from the University of Oregon. Forensic nurses can work in a variety of patient care areas. There are many certification options including SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner), SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner), FNE (Forensic Nurse Examiner), SANC (Sexual Assault Nurse Clinician), and the latest SAE (Sexual Assault Examiner). While earning an advanced degree is not a requirement for this type of work, many nurses do go on to pursue a masters degree or a doctoral-level degree to further their careers. For example, forensic nurses based in the District of Columbia, Washington D.C., earned on average $71,000 in 2014, according to NurseJournal.org. As mentioned above, the most common certification for the forensic nurse is the SANE designation, which is available from the IAFN. Teaching, English Education (Secondary) M.A. They have a foundation in the criminal justice system as well as nursing. A nurse death investigator must carry out tasks such as conducting body examinations and taking crime scene photographs. RNs earn an annual mean salary of $77,460, significantly higher than theaverage yearly wage of $53,490 for all U.S. occupations. Different specialty sets may require unique training, which then leads to higher pay. Business Management B.S. The requirements for this program include: While an Advanced Forensic Nursing certification used to be offered through theAmerican Nurses Credentialing Center, the ANCC retired it in late 2017. Overall, finding a bachelors, masters degree or certificate in a forensics or criminal justice discipline may abet ones professional goals, in addition to being an interesting path in a service-oriented career. Forensic nurses may also work as death investigators, which means working alongside medical examiners or coroners to determine the cause of death in cases where there is a suspicion of foul play. This unique, dual role ensures that victims of a crime receive the best quality care during a very emotionally and physically trying time. Since forensic nurses have this special skill set, it is not uncommon for authorities to request them to provide testimonies in court. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. But forensic nurses do much more than what is featured on television, and there is no doubt about the need for forensic nurses in a variety of fields. Helpful Organizations, Societies, & Agencies, Post-Masters Certificate Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), post-master's forensic nursing certificate, The American Institute of Health Care Professionals. Forensic nurses are speciality nurses so they may make much more than that. Hospitals, community anti-violence programs, and medical examiners' offices provide the majority of forensic nursing jobs. Obtaining certification in forensic nursing is highly recommended. An RN must take an approved course and complete at least 300 hours of training to be eligible for the SANE exam and certification. As an Expert Witness- This designation is achieved after a forensic nurse has attained a high level of experience. Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) M.A. Qualified SANE-A and SANE-P nurses spring into action once a rape or other sexual assault has been reported. Learn about post-master's forensic nursing certificate programs. Forensic nursing is an important facet of nursing that deals with trauma victims. Forensic nursing is on pace to grow faster than the national average rate, and for good reasons. The job outlook for forensic nurses is especially favorable, as there aren't currently enough to meet the demand across the country. Rachel writes about meditation, yoga, coaching, and more on her blog (Instagram: @racheldrummondyoga). Nurses are required to get extensive education, clinical hands-on experience, and pass the NCLEX exam before getting licensed. Collect evidence such as debris, bodily fluids, bullets, Report victims of assault/abuse to local law enforcement and Child/Adult Protective Services, 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. The responsibilities of a correctional nurse specialist include providing medication, physical exams, and health care to detainees and inmates, and this requires medical field knowledge. There are several things you can do to help you earn more money as a nurse, and a career in forensic nursing is one great option. We're emailing you the app fee waiver code and other information about getting your degree from WGU. Graduate Degrees and Degrees for Licensed Teachers. The unique role of a forensic nurse acting as a caregiver and crime specialist has led to many new career opportunities. While specific duties vary by employment setting, key responsibilities include the following: Credit: Lothar Drechsel / iStock/Getty Images Plus / Getty Images. While not necessarily required, certification demonstrates a commitment to the profession and a higher standard of care within the field of forensic nursing. Forensic nurses can also apply their skills to different domains of business, including risk management, human rights abuse, and employment litigation. Hospital-based forensic nurses document injuries and gather evidence from survivor of trauma. These programs provide vital services to the vulnerable, including survivors of gang violence, domestic abuse, and sexual assault. Step 5: Complete forensic nursing training (40 hours) Assuming a forensic nurse wants to earn the most common forensic nursing certification, they must complete at least 40 hours of training specific to the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) role. Forensic nursings expansion into an array of fields and applications to various situations calls for special skills. From emergency rooms to women's clinics, nurses with forensic specialties are vital in hospital settings. Forensic nurses who work in emergency departments/urgent care may: Forensic nurses working in the community may: Whether forensic nurses are employed in the hospital or community setting, working with deceased or living patients, their roles are the same. There are also other specializations available and are outlined in the next section. Though all forensic nurses will work with victims of crimes, there are specializations within the field. As alluded to above, the most common specialization within forensic nursing is the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). Those with SANE certification treat sexual assault cases and file reports to police and protective services agencies. Find out more about scholarships for new students. A high school graduate can expect to spend at least two more years in school, plus a minimum of two years gaining clinical experience before they are able to specialize. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) M.A. You're in charge of your college educationbut you're never alone. With experience and certification in forensic nursing, registered and advanced practice nurses can find work in this unique and specialized field of nursing. Why Are More Than 100,000 Rape Kits Still Untested? Strong attention to detail is also a quality valued in forensic nursing. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. To be eligible for future certification, they should work in an environment that involves thorough physical examinations, such as an emergency room or trauma department.
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