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Forensic Nursing Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

... forensic evidence to victims of sexual and domestic violence, elder abuse and human trafficking ... Associate's Degree or Diploma in Nursing New Hires required to complete BSN within 5 years of hire ...

... forensic evidence to victims of sexual and domestic violence, elder abuse and human trafficking ... Associate's Degree or Diploma in Nursing New Hires required to complete BSN within 5 years of hire ...

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Forensic Nursing information

See Ohio salary details

$15

$29

$49

How much do forensic nursing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic nursing in Ohio is $29.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $35.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Can an RN be a forensic nurse?

Yes, a registered nurse (RN) can become a forensic nurse by obtaining specialized training in forensic science, evidence collection, and legal procedures. Forensic nurses often work in hospitals, clinics, or law enforcement settings and may pursue certifications such as the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) credential.

How can I become a forensic nurse?

To become a forensic nurse, you typically need to first become a registered nurse by completing an accredited nursing program and obtaining licensure. Gaining experience in emergency or trauma care is common, followed by specialized training or certification in forensic nursing through programs like the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certification. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of legal procedures are essential in this field.

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Forensic Nursing jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Forensic Nursing job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Nursing job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% As Needed, 62% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,239 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

RN - Forensic Nursing/SANE

Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$45/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide trauma-informed care to pediatric and adult patients, including performing speculum exams and pediatric assessments under supervision.

  • Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, including medical staff, law enforcement, prosecutors, and advocates, to support patients and manage forensic evidence collection.

  • Respond to calls, participate in onboarding and training, and support patients through follow-up services, safety planning, and evidence management.


Cleveland Clinic rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 914 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Join Cleveland Clinic's Forensic Nursing team and become part of a compassionate, highly specialized group dedicated to supporting patients during some of life's most challenging moments. As a Forensic Nurse,you'llprovide trauma-informed care to pediatric and adult patients. In collaboration with an interdisciplinary team,you'lloffer compassionate care,advocacy,and support while helping patients navigate their next steps.

Whetheryou'relooking to expand your nursing skills or pursue a unique specialty, this role offers an exceptional opportunity for growth. No prior forensic nursing experience isrequired.We'rewilling to train the right candidate.You'llreceive comprehensive education and mentorship, beginning with the adult patient population before progressing to pediatrics. Every member of the team responds to calls, creating a collaborative environment whereyou'llgain valuable experience while making a meaningful impact on the lives of patients and their families.

*Onboarding is completed in house,immediatelyput on call, 3-6 months to get throughorientation - must be able to do the training asneeded, must be able to have a 7:00pm start time*

A caregiver in this positionworksPRN|7:00pm-3:00pm or 7:00pm-7:00am| PRN will float between campuses.

A caregiver who excels in this role will:

  • Provide enhanced follow-up services andresources,safety plans are discussed and implemented before the patient isdischarged.

  • Perform speculum exams and/or pediatric assessments under the supervision of a LIP.

  • Utilize a thorough knowledge on collecting and managing forensic evidence with a Sexual Assault Exam Collection (SAEC) kit and a Drug Facilitated Sexual Assault kit (DFSA).

  • Interact and collaborate with medical and nursing staff, law enforcement,prosecutors, protective services, advocates, and other agencies as needed.

Minimum qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:

  • Completean IAFNapproved SANE Adolescent/Adult course within60 daysof hire

  • Completean IAFNapproved SANE Pediatric course within 1 year of hire

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) through American Heart Association (AHA)or American Red Cross

  • Current state licensure as Registered Nurse (RN)

  • 1 yearrecent RN work experience

  • *If in an ED, Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) through American Heart Association (AHA) upon hire or within one year of beginning work in the Emergency Department

Preferred qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:

  • BSN(Bachelor of Science inNursing)

  • Trauma, Women'sHealth,or Pediatric experience

Physical Requirements:

  • Light Work - Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly (Constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible.

  • Note: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.

Personal Protective Equipment:

  • Gloves, Masks, Gowns as needed.

Pay Range

Minimum hourly: $45.00

Maximum hourly: $45.00

The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate's actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate's work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.). The pay range does not include the value of Cleveland Clinic's benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental and vision benefits, retirement savings account contributions, etc.).


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