Like forensic scientists and psychologists, forensic nurses collect evidence that later can be used as a determinant in emotional and/or physical abuse court cases. A forensic nurse has specialized training in forensic evidence collection, criminal procedures, legal testimony expertise, and more. These skills are called upon when charges have been filed and a court case requires testimony that will help decide the fate of the accused. A forensic nurse typically works closely with the criminal justice system, helping police with investigations, and attorneys with their cases.

Forensic nursing combines science and medicine, law and criminology. At its root, forensic nurses are advocates for patients and resource people, managing the care and efforts of all disciplines involved in the response to incidences of assault or abuse. When employed by the coroner or medical examiner's office, these nurses can investigate deaths. Structured around the nursing process, the framework for forensic nursing is based on planning, intervention, and evaluation.

Forensic nurses provide input and education to judicial, criminal justice, and healthcare professionals involved in civil and criminal cases. For more information on this exciting and burgeoning field of medical science, please review the resources below. They are designed to assist those in the beginning and middle stages of their forensic nursing careers.