What is a Forensic Nurse?

A forensic nurse is a nurse who provides specialized care for patients who are victims and/or perpetrators of trauma (both intentional and unintentional). Forensic Nurses are NURSES first and foremost. However, the specialized role of forensic nurses goes far beyond medical care; forensic nurses also have a specialized knowledge of the legal system and skills in injury identification, evaluation and documentation. After attending to a patient’s immediate medical needs, a forensic nurse often collects evidence, provides medical testimony in court, and consults with legal authorities.

Specialties of Forensic Nursing

Are there different types of forensic nurses?

Forensic nurses work in a variety of fields, including sexual assault (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners or SANEs), domestic violence, human trafficking, child abuse and neglect, elder mistreatment, death investigation, corrections, and in the aftermath of mass disasters.