Forensic Nurse Job Description

What is the job description of a Forensic Nurse? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Forensic Nurse? What does a Forensic Nurse do?

Job description of a Forensic Nurse

Forensic Nurses are licensed health professionals that apply clinical nursing practice together with forensic investigation to identify injuries of patients. Forensic Nurses examine patients involved in crime and sexual assault, process forensic evidence and assist in death investigations.

This Forensic Nurse job description example includes the list of most important Forensic Nurse duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Forensic Nurse profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Forensic Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Forensic Nurse job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Provide expert forensic nursing consultation.
  • Maintain confidentiality and compassion at all times.
  • Collect blood, tissue and semen samples.
  • Evaluate and document patients’ wounds and/or injuries.
  • Properly handle all evidence gathered.
  • Conduct forensic photography.
  • Serve as a bridge between the healthcare and legal systems.
  • Attend mandatory forensic nursing training.
  • Gather pertinent evidence from victims and suspects.
  • Manage the victim’s emotional trauma and fear.
  • Request lab tests and interpret the test results.
  • Testify in court as an expert witness using evidence gathered.

Forensic Nurse Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Forensic Nurse job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • Degree in Forensic Nursing (essential).
  • Years of practice as a registered nurse (essential).
  • A minimum of 1000 practice hours as a Forensics Nurse.
  • A minimum of 20 continuing education hours specializing in Forensics Nursing.
  • Completed National Council Licensure Examination (essential).
  • Superb counseling and observation skills.
  • Compassionate nature with the ability to calm patients.
  • Expert in collecting medical evidence and the criminal justice system.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent decision-making skills and communication skills.
  • Ability to identify and preserve evidence.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Forensic Nurse starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Forensic Nurse job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Forensic Nurse may also reference it in preparation for the interview.