Forensic nursing is one of the newest forms of forensic sciences recognized by the American Nurses Association. The new field combines the health care profession with the judicial system. Nurses trained in forensic nursing are needed to quickly and appropriately gather evidence that can be used in a court of law. Along with gathering forensic information, they also testify in trials of their jurisdictions. The appeal of forensic nursing is mainly with victims of violence.

This can be hard on the victim. Having one expert that can do everything from start to finish including going to trial would make it a lot less stressful for the victim. Because forensic nursing is such a new and growing specialty, it offers great opportunities for recent nursing graduates and experienced RN’s looking for a career change. This convention led to the founding of the IAFN, the International Association of Forensic Nurses. Their mission statement was the concept of nurses willing to devote their energy and resources to develop a role in nursing that can have a impact on the future of forensic science and the health care industry. Forensic nurses practice in many diverse fields. Forensic nurses may also serve as legal nurse consultants or attorneys. Degree programs are available in forensic nursing but are not required for entry into the profession. Certification courses required for the SANE program is a good start. The employers of forensic nursing specialists vary as well. The industry of forensic nursing is only getting more and more attractive to nurses that really want to make a difference in the community around them. It’s an opportunity for them to help victims of violence and helping the perpetrators of violence to get help. There is a nationwide shortage of nurses, and this shortage is predicted to get worse. Jobs in the field of nursing are abundant worldwide. This causes a high degree of competition for those wanting to get in to a nursing program.

Potential nursing students are finding it difficult to find programs, and when they do, there are often wait lists. Even more new jobs are expected to be created for registered nurses than for any other occupation. These job opportunities are expected to be very good. They are advocates and health educators for the community, their patients and the patients families. Registered nurses deal with direct patient care. It is their job to observe patients, record symptoms and track patient progress.