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Forensic Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Reposted 6/3/2026 Forensic Nursing Full Time A forensic nurse is a Registered or Advanced Practice Nurse who has advanced education and training in the specialized care of patients who are ...

Regions Hospital in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is seeking compassionate and dedicated Forensic Nurse Examiners to join our Emergency Medicine Department team. Under the supervision of the Emergency ...

Make a Difference The Forensic Nurse Examiner- FNE (RN) in the Center of Hope will be responsible for demonstrating performance consistent with professional standards of practice, care, performance ...

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Forensic Nurse information

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$51

How much do forensic nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic nurse in the United States is $31.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $37.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are forensic nurses and what do they do?

Forensic nurses are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients who are victims of trauma, violence, or abuse, while also collecting medical evidence that may be used in legal proceedings. They perform medical examinations, document injuries, collect forensic evidence, and often provide testimony in court. Forensic nurses work closely with law enforcement and legal professionals to ensure proper handling of evidence and advocate for the physical and emotional well-being of their patients. Their roles can include sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE), death investigator, or correctional nursing, depending on their training and workplace.

What is the role of a forensic nurse?

A forensic nurse specializes in providing healthcare to victims and suspects of trauma, violence, or abuse while collecting evidence for legal cases. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or law enforcement settings and may require specialized training or certification in forensic nursing. Their role includes documenting injuries, collecting forensic evidence, and providing expert testimony in court.

Where do forensic nurses make the most money?

Forensic nurses tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare services, such as large metropolitan areas. States or cities with more extensive healthcare facilities and law enforcement agencies often offer higher compensation for forensic nursing roles. Salary can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific healthcare or legal environment.

How do forensic nurses typically collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams during investigations?

Forensic nurses often work closely with law enforcement officers and legal professionals to collect, document, and preserve medical evidence related to crimes such as assault or abuse. They may be called upon to provide expert testimony in court, prepare detailed reports, and ensure the chain of custody for evidence is maintained. Effective communication and meticulous documentation are essential, as their findings can play a crucial role in criminal investigations and prosecutions. This collaborative environment also requires sensitivity, professionalism, and a solid understanding of both medical and legal protocols.

How long does it take to become a forensic nurse?

Becoming a forensic nurse typically requires completing a registered nurse (RN) program, which takes about 2 to 4 years, followed by gaining clinical experience and obtaining specialized training or certification in forensic nursing, which can add several months. Overall, it usually takes around 2 to 5 years to become a qualified forensic nurse depending on education path and certification requirements.

What is the difference between Forensic Nurse vs Emergency Room Nurse?

AspectForensic NurseEmergency Room Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN), Forensic Nursing Certification (optional)Registered Nurse (RN), Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, crime scenes, forensic labs, law enforcement agenciesEmergency departments, hospitals, urgent care centers
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, healthcare, forensic agenciesHospitals, urgent care, trauma centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Forensic nurses specialize in collecting evidence and providing care related to crimes, often working with law enforcement. Emergency room nurses focus on immediate patient care for acute illnesses and injuries. While both are registered nurses, forensic nurses have additional training in forensic science and legal procedures, making their roles distinct yet overlapping in healthcare and legal contexts.

Can you work in forensics as a nurse?

Forensic nurses are trained to work at the intersection of healthcare and the legal system, often assisting with crime scene investigations, collecting evidence, and providing care to victims. They typically need specialized training, certification, and knowledge of legal procedures to perform effectively in forensic settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Nurse, you need a solid background in nursing, specialized forensic nursing training or certification (such as SANE), and a valid RN license. Familiarity with evidence collection protocols, forensic documentation systems, and legal reporting tools is essential. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication, and compassion are critical soft skills for working with trauma victims and collaborating with law enforcement. These skills ensure accurate evidence handling, patient advocacy, and effective legal case support in sensitive and complex situations.

What Is a Forensic Nurse?

As a forensic nurse, you provide care for patients who are victims of sexual assault and other crimes. Your responsibilities during medical exams are to counsel the patient and to collect forensic evidence, such as photographs of injuries, blood, bodily fluids, and tissue samples. Your job is to practice compassionate medical care while following the principles of forensic science. Your job duties include treating patients, collecting evidence, giving expert testimony at criminal trials, and collaborating with doctors and law enforcement officials.

What cities are hiring for Forensic Nurse jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Nurse job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Nurse jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Nurse jobs are:
What states have the most Forensic Nurse jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Nurse jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Nurse jobs? For Forensic Nurse jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Nurse job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 6% As Needed, and 93% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,466 per year, or $31.5 per hour.
RN - Forensic Nurse (PRN)

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Blanchard Valley Health System rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

713th of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

PURPOSE OF THIS POSITION

The Forensic Nurse will provide timely, non-judgmental, compassionate care to patients experiencing a crime such as; assault, child abuse/neglect, intimate partner violence, elder abuse/neglect, human trafficking and sexual assault. Exams performed by the forensic nurse may include a medical-forensic exam, prophylaxis for pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, photographic documentation, and referrals for appropriate medical and psychological follow-up, support and participation in legal proceedings.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

Duty 1:   Displays Service Excellence as evidence by practicing the mission, vision, and values of the organization to promote patient satisfaction.

Duty 2:   Ability to triage patient to determine if medical exam is needed before forensic exam.

Duty 3:   Coordinates care by all agencies involved in assisting the sexual assault victim and coordinates referrals for appropriate medical and psychological follow-up as needed for each patient.

Duty 4:   Performs a complete physical and forensic evidence collection examination including Head-to-Toe assessment for trauma, detailed genital examination, forensic specimen collection and documentation, including photography, and assesses for mandatory reporting status, reporting when appropriate

Duty 5:   Documents detailed injuries accurately with support of photographic evidence.

Duty 6:   Maintains chain of custody during the medical forensic exam and adheres to evidence protocols.

Duty 7:   Maintains competency by maintaining active performance of cases with no lapse of greater than six months.

Duty 8:   Participates in monthly quality assurance chart and photograph review process as determined by the Forensic nursing program

Duty 9:   Adheres to all administrative, clinical, and employment policies and procedures on file with the forensic nursing program

Duty 10:  Commits to cover minimum number of shifts, holiday coverage, and other scheduling requirements as determined by the forensic nursing program.

Duty 11:  Participates in professional development as determined by the forensic nursing program, including staff meetings, conferences, and in services.

Duty 12:   Provides testimony as fact witness to any/all cases performed and coordinates with attorneys during judicial process.

Duty 13:   Travels to Bluffton Hospital for patient care

Duty 14:   Administers appropriate prophylactic medications.

  REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Licensed by the Ohio Board of Nursing as a Registered Nurse
  • Positive service-oriented interpersonal and communication skills required.
  • Individual must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patient served on his/her assigned unit/department.
  • The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient status.
  • Must be able to interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age-specific needs and to provide the care needed as described in the area's policies and procedures.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • 41 hour Adult/Adolescent IAFN SANE training (Can be provided)
  • 43 hour Pediatric IAFN SANE training (Can be provided)
  • 2 year RN experience
  • TNCC
  • ACLS
  • PALS

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.  This position is required to lift up to 50lbs.

This position is classified at risk for possible occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens (HBV, HIV, etc.)

Employment Type: PRN

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About Blanchard Valley Health System

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blanchard Valley Health System, located in Findlay, OH, US, is a non-profit, integrated regional health system dedicated to providing a full continuum of health services to the residents of Hancock County and the contiguous communities in Ohio. The health system operates Blanchard Valley Hospital and Bluffton Hospital alongside a wide array of outpatient specialty clinics and centers such as the region's leading alcohol and drug addiction treatment center, Birchaven Village, a retirement community, and the Blanchard Valley Medical Practices. Founded in 1891, the health system's roots are ingrained in local philanthropy and community service.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Findlay, OH, US

Year founded

1891

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