Hit & Myth: Forensic Nursing Programs |
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February 25, 2005
by Edward Castro
ed.castro@hqpublications.com
Healthcare Programs Columnist
According to a survey released by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation almost 87% of doctors say that overall morale of the profession has gone down the last few years, and 60% said their own morale had declined.
An M.D. is still the brass ring of medical careers, but nursing programs are becoming more popular as the bureaucracy of medicine begins to take its toll on physicians. While some people interested in healthcare careers are choosing specialties that are less demanding, others are choosing to enter a forensic nursing program, a new and evolving specialty.
Entering a Forensic Nursing Program
You don't have to be a detective to investigate what it takes to become a forensic nurse. There are many forensic nursing programs and certification courses available to anyone who wants to combine detective work, criminal justice and medicine into one fascinating career. Lest you think forensic nurses run around crime scenes all day, rubbing elbows with policemen, the truth is a bit less glamorous.
Careers in Forensic Nursing
Most Forensic Nurses begin their careers by completing a college nursing program, forensic nursing school program or as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) certified through other agencies. A forensic nursing school prepares you to specifically work with victims of violent crime, collecting evidence and providing care. Specialty areas within forensic nursing include Forensic Nurse Investigator, Nurse Coroner/Death Investigator, and Legal Nurse Consultant. Each of these specialties requires specific training.
Nursing Programs Lead To Healthy Careers
Forensic nursing is still a relatively new field, but the outlook is good. Starting salaries for forensic nurses hover in the $20,000 to $40,000 range depending on degree held and specialty. If you're drawn to mystery, like playing a role in justice, and want to help people in need, investigating forensic nursing schools in your area is the only clue you need to uncover.
About the Author
Edward Castro has an extensive experience as a creative media writer. His client portfolio has included such notables as Hewlett-Packard, Sony Computer Entertainment, Shockwave, AtomFilms, GameBlast and Mervyn’s California. In his current position, Ed is developing the marketing strategy of an Internet start-up company specializing in Japanese trade goods.
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