Fast Facts About Forensic Nursing

Abstract

This book encompasses the wide range of injury and assault cases requiring the collection of forensic evidence in preparation for a legal case. This includes different types of sexual assault and violence, child maltreatment, elder maltreatment, bullying, interpersonal violence, gunshot wounds, community violence, human trafficking, terrorist acts, and mass disasters. With supporting case scenarios, the book describes step-by-step how to collect evidence and the proper procedure for handing over evidence once it is collected. The book is organized into four parts comprising eighteen chapters and begins with a brief description of history of forensic nursing. It also describes providing testimony in forensic cases and trauma-informed care. The book provides insight into some common and not-so common aspects of forensic nursing and how nurses in any setting can implement forensic nursing skills in delivering optimal care to patients. Forensic nursing is a growing nursing field blending nursing science with forensic science, law, and criminology. Forensic nurses trained in this field gather findings such as documenting injuries, collecting biological fluids, and preserving evidence such as clothing from the assault.