Celebrating Forensic Nurses Week

International Association of Forensic Nurses Marks Forensic Nurses Week by Recognizing Important Work in the Field

Sammamish, WA (Nov. 11, 2013) The International Association of Forensic Nurses, Washington State Chapter  joins in the celebration of Forensic Nurses week, from November 11 to 15, which seeks to highlight the important work and contribution made by practitioners in the field. The nurses provide exceptional care everyday to men, women, and children who have experienced trauma.

In Sammamish, Alison Cathro, 2013 President and Susan Johnson President - Elect, of the Washington State Chapter are being recognized for their work providing exceptional patient care.

A forensic nurse provides specialized care for patients who are victims and/or suspects’ and have experienced injury (both intentional and unintentional). These healthcare professionals are nurses first, but have knowledge of the legal system and expertise in forensic science. After meeting a patient’s medical and psychosocial needs, a forensic nurse often collects evidence, provides medical testimony in court, and consults with legal authorities. The International Association of Forensic Nurses has more than 3,000 members from 22 countries.

Forensic Nursing is the fastest growing nursing specialty. Forensic Nurses use their advanced education and training to provide nursing care, collect evidence and provide consultation in a variety of areas including: sexual assault, intimate partner violence, child abuse and neglect, death investigation, elder mistreatment, corrections, emergency services, mental health and public health.

Studies show a strong link between violence and short- and long-term healthcare issues, with patients who experience violence or abuse accessing the healthcare system at least twice as frequently as those without a history.  

“Most people who enter the profession of nursing do so wanting to help others. They are nurses with great skill and courage and they treat their patients objectively but with caring and compassion,” said Polly Campbell, RN, BS, BA, President of the Association’s board of directors.

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FORENSIC NURSES

With more than 3,000 members from 22 countries, the International Association of Forensic Nurses’ mission is to provide leadership in forensic nursing practice by developing, promoting, and disseminating information internationally about forensic nursing science. The Association also offers certification for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners in both Adult/Adolescent (SANE-A) and Pediatric (SANE-P) patient care. In 2012, the Association and the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC) launched a new certification through portfolio for Advanced Forensic Nurses. For more information, visit www.ForensicNurses.org .