how to become a forensic nurse
How to Become a Forensic Nurse
A relatively new career in the field of medicine is that of a forensic nurse. These days many youngsters are aspiring for this stream due to the challenges and excitement this careers offers...
- In order to hold a valid forensic nurse qualification, you need to complete a three year degree program in the field of nursing. The candidate can opt for a bachelor of science in nursing, an associate degree in nursing, and a diploma program. After this you can apply for the registered nurse (RN) program, which is a prerequisite for forensic nursing.
- Once you have obtained the RN degree, which has a duration of two to four years, you can opt for forensic nursing. The candidate may be required to choose his area of specialization like counseling, criminology, general forensic nursing, pediatrics and psychology etc. After graduating from this program, the student may have to study further for an approved nursing program in the field of forensics.
- Forensic nursing programs offer specialty in various fields like a forensic clinical nurse, forensic gerontology specialist, forensic psychiatric nurse, death investigator and sexual assault examiner, forensic investigator, and the like. These courses are offered in traditional schools as well as through on-line colleges. Choose the one where you would like to specialize in.
- After the completion of the course, you can join as an intern or take up a residence program. After this you can apply for the license of a forensic nurse. For this you may have to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLE), conducted by the state. To start a career, you may have to get a certificate from the Forensic Nursing Certification Board (FNCB) of the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN).
- Once you have completed the formalities and requirements, you can work as a full-fledged forensic nurse. The salary of a forensic nurse may range from USD 54,000 to USD 208,000 (an approximate value) on an annual basis. The perks are availed based on the experience, location and work of the individual.