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Forensic Nursing 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 ...

Maintain forensic nursing competency through continuing education and training * Participate in on-call coverage, including weekends and holidays * Assist with community outreach and educational ...

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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 ...

... forensic nursing expertise through ongoing education, specialized training, and professional development opportunities Contribute to community outreach, prevention education, and awareness ...

Maintain forensic nursing competency through continuing education and training * Participate in on-call coverage, including weekends and holidays * Assist with community outreach and educational ...

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Forensic Nursing information

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How much do forensic nursing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic nursing 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 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, and an active RN license. Familiarity with evidence collection protocols, legal documentation systems, and specialized certifications such as SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) are typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and emotional resilience are crucial soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate evidence handling, compassionate patient care, and effective collaboration with legal and healthcare teams during sensitive investigations.

How can a nurse get into forensics?

To become a forensic nurse, a registered nurse must typically obtain experience in emergency or critical care settings and pursue specialized training or certification in forensic nursing, such as the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certification. Gaining knowledge of legal procedures, evidence collection, and documentation is essential for working in forensic environments.

How to make $300,000 as a nurse?

Forensic nursing is a specialized field that can offer higher salaries, especially with advanced certifications and experience. To reach a $300,000 income, nurses often work in high-demand areas, take on additional shifts, or pursue roles in management or consulting, leveraging skills in forensic evidence collection and legal testimony. Achieving this level typically requires years of experience, specialized training, and sometimes working in private or high-paying healthcare settings.

What is the difference between Forensic Nursing vs Forensic Science?

AspectForensic NursingForensic Science
Required CredentialsRegistered Nursing License (RN), possibly certifications in forensic or sexual assault nursingBachelor's or Master's in Forensic Science, Crime Scene Investigation, or related fields
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, forensic units, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, law enforcement, forensic hospitals
Common Search/ComparisonYes

Forensic Nursing focuses on providing healthcare and collecting evidence in legal cases, often working directly with victims. Forensic Science involves analyzing physical evidence in labs to support criminal investigations. While both fields support the justice system, Forensic Nursing emphasizes patient care and evidence collection, whereas Forensic Science centers on laboratory analysis.

What can an RN do in forensics?

A forensic nurse, often an RN, conducts assessments, collects evidence, and documents injuries in cases of trauma, abuse, or violence. They work in hospitals, clinics, or forensic laboratories, often requiring specialized training and certifications such as Forensic Nursing Certification (FNC).

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

Forensic nurses often work closely with law enforcement officers and legal teams to collect, document, and preserve evidence from victims of trauma or abuse. They may be asked to provide expert testimony in court, submit detailed reports, and participate in case reviews. Effective communication and meticulous attention to detail are essential, as their work often plays a crucial role in criminal investigations and prosecutions. This collaboration requires sensitivity, professionalism, and a clear understanding of legal procedures.

What is forensic nursing?

Forensic nursing is a specialized field that blends healthcare with the legal system. Forensic nurses provide care to victims of trauma or violence, such as sexual assault, domestic abuse, or elder neglect, while collecting evidence that may be used in court. They often work closely with law enforcement and legal professionals, and may be called to testify as expert witnesses. This role requires strong clinical skills, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of legal procedures. Forensic nurses play a crucial role in both supporting victims and ensuring justice.

What jobs can forensic nurses do?

Forensic nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, or law enforcement agencies, providing care to victims of violence, sexual assault, or abuse. They also assist in criminal investigations by collecting evidence, documenting injuries, and providing expert testimony in court. Additional roles include working in correctional facilities, forensic laboratories, or as part of multidisciplinary teams addressing trauma and victim advocacy.
More about Forensic Nursing jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Nursing jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Nursing job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Nursing jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Nursing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Nursing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,466 per year, or $31.5 per hour.
Forensic Nurse - As Needed

Forensic Nurse - As Needed

Meritus Health

Hagerstown, MD • On-site

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Meritus Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

487th of 875 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Forensic Nurse
As Needed
The Forensic Nurse provides comprehensive, trauma-informed forensic nursing care to victims of violence across the lifespan who present to Meritus Health. This role integrates evidence-based clinical practice with forensic principles to support patient care, evidence collection, and collaboration with multidisciplinary partners involved in investigation and treatment. The Forensic Nurse maintains clinical competency and participates in ongoing education in accordance with the Maryland Board of Nursing requirements.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide comprehensive forensic nursing care to victims of violence, including sexual assault, domestic violence, abuse, and other trauma-related presentations.
  • Deliver patient-centered, evidence-based care across the lifespan in a sensitive, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed manner.
  • Conduct forensic examinations, documentation, and evidence collection in accordance with legal, ethical, and organizational standards.
  • Maintain chain of custody and ensure accurate, timely, and thorough documentation.
  • Coordinate care with a multidisciplinary team, including law enforcement, advocacy services, social work, and other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care and investigation.
  • Provide patient education, emotional support, and referrals to appropriate community resources.
  • Maintain clinical competency and participate in continuing education related to medical and forensic issues as outlined by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
  • Adhere to Meritus Health policies, procedures, and quality standards.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education - ASN required. BSN Preferred.
Experience - Minimum of one-year acute care experience preferred. Other nursing experience will be considered on a case by case basis.
Licensure/Certification - Current license to practice as Registered Nurse in the State of Maryland, or if resident of a state that participates in Nurse Multi-State Compact agreement, holds Registered Nurse license from that state that is designated as "Compact" or "Multi-State Privilege" using primary source verification and provides additional documentation as required by the Maryland Board of Nursing. RN license from a compact state with a designation of "Single State" does not meet the requirement and nurse must obtain a Maryland license. Maryland certification as an adult/adolescent forensic nurse examiner (FNE-A) through the Maryland Board of Nursing must be obtained within 6 months of completing course and certification as a pediatric forensic nurse examiner (FNE-P) within 6 months of completing course. These trainings will be provided if not already licensed. National SANE-A, SANE-P, Generalist Forensic Nurse Certified (GFN-C™) or Advanced Forensic Nurse Certified (AFN-C™) certification preferred. BLS (CPR) in compliance with policy required.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities - Keen analytical ability and able to pay attention to detail while using critical thinking skills. Proficient in evidence collection of victims and suspects. Able to perform forensic nursing duties in the emergency department, inpatient hospital, and community-based settings. Proficient in forensic photography. Ability to maintain objectivity and confidentiality while treating patients in a trauma-informed manner. Strong team work ethic while also able to work independently with minimal supervision. Ability to work in stressful environments while maintaining a professional attitude in communication with victims and perpetrators of violence and members of multi-disciplinary team. Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to serve as an expert witness and fact witness in forensic cases in the court of law.
Happy to Help
At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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