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Forensic Nursing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Degree in Nursing required. * Registered Nurse with current MI license required. * SANE-A training, on-line (or equivalent), required. * Forensic examiner must be on-call a minimum of 52 hours per ...

Degree in Nursing required. * Registered Nurse with current MI license required. * SANE-A training, on-line (or equivalent), required. * Forensic examiner must be on-call a minimum of 52 hours per ...

Degree in Nursing required. * Registered Nurse with current MI license required. * SANE-A training, on-line (or equivalent), required. * Forensic examiner must be on-call a minimum of 52 hours per ...

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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 Examiner

Forensic Nurse Examiner

Kootenai Health

Coeur D Alene, ID • On-site

Other

Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 5 days ago


Kootenai Health rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 1,002 rated hospitals


Job description

Forensic Nurse Examiner
Position Summary
Serves patients who are potential victims of crime presenting for care across the Kootenai Health organization. Care provided must be compassionate, trauma-informed medical forensic care, to include appropriate follow up referrals. Acts as a community expert for forensic nursing. Promotes optimal health, well-being, and safety through use of the nursing process and in accordance with patient care standards, and the Idaho Nurse Practice Act. Provides relationship-based care as demonstrated by compassion for the patient, maintaining confidentiality, securing the chain of custody for evidence collection, and providing trauma-informed medical forensic care. Engages fully within nursing and inter-professional teams, fostering open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making to achieve quality patient care. Integrates best current evidence into clinical practice and uses data to monitor and improve the outcomes of care processes. Uses information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error, and support decision-making.
Responsibilities
• Evaluates, plans, implements, and documents nursing care for an assigned patient population
• Performs various patient tests and administers medications within the scope of practice of the registered nurse
• Promotes patient's independence by establishing patient care goals and teaching patient and family to understand condition, medications, and self-care skills
• Function independently with minimal oversight, utilizing strong critical thinking skills
• Maintain expertise and current knowledge in performing medical forensic exams related to forensic science, trauma-informed care, current legal laws and statues, any changing evidence collection procedures, and emerging trends
• Perform a complete medical forensic exam, recognizing time sensitive nature of certain exam collections, including but not limited to: obtaining a detailed history for the purpose of treatment/evidence collection, a detailed head-to-toe assessment, forensic photography, appropriate screenings, and follow up recommendations
• Actively participate in peer review, professional development, staff meetings, and ongoing continuing education as required
• Provide fact/expert witness testimony, as required
• Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals
• Regular and predictable attendance is an essential job function
• Performs other related duties as assigned
• Competent to meet age-specific needs of the unit assigned
Requirements and Minimum Qualifications
• Graduate of a nationally accredited Nursing program required
• State of Idaho Registered Nurse OR licensure pending as documented by temporary licensure OR current RN licensure from a state participating in the "multistate privilege to practice" compact with Idaho prior to start date
• 2 years' RN experience in any setting required; emergency, women's health, or critical care experience preferred
• Licensed RN with a minimum 3 years' patient-facing RN experience at time of hire, ADN or diploma required; BSN or higher preferred
• All non-BSN RN's with less than 3 years' patient-facing RN experience at time of hire are required to be enrolled in a baccalaureate (or higher) degree program in nursing within 1 year of employment, with completion within 3 years of hire
• 64-hour combined adult/adolescent/pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner course required or completion of Kootenai Health training within 3 months of hire
• 16-hour SANE clinical skills course required or completion of Kootenai Health training within 3 months of hire
• 24-hours of forensic continuing education required annually
• Kootenai Health approved specialty certification required within 2 years of hire; SANE-A, SANE-P, GFN-C preferred
• BLS required
Working Conditions
• Must be able to lift and move up to 35 lbs
• Must be able to maintain a standing position
• Typical equipment used in a clinical job
• Must be able to stoop, crouch, or bend
• Must be able to push, pull, or transport heavy equipment
• Must be able to assist in patient transfer
• Exposure to needles, blood and body fluids, etc.
About Kootenai Health
Kootenai Health is a highly esteemed healthcare organization serving patients throughout northern Idaho and the Inland Northwest. We have been recognized with many accolades and distinctions, including being a Gallup Great Workplace, No. 1 Best Place to Work in Large Healthcare Organizations, and Magnet™ Status for Nursing Excellence. We pride ourselves on our outstanding reputation as an employer and a healthcare provider.
As your next employer, we are excited to offer you:
  • Comprehensive medical coverage, including fully employer'paid options for eligible full'time employees, plus affordable plans for part'time staff. Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment.
  • Dental, vision, life, and pet insurance, with telemedicine and wellbeing resources available to all employees
  • Tuition assistance after 90 days to support your professional growth
  • Retirement plans with pre'tax and Roth options and employer matching from 3%-6%
  • Competitive pay, plus night, weekend, and PRN shift differentials
  • Award'winning wellness program with coaching, financial wellness resources, and free or discounted access to fitness centers and premium wellbeing apps
  • PerkSpot discounts providing access to thousands of exclusive deals in over 25 categories
  • And an employee referral bonus program

Kootenai Health provides exceptional support for extraordinary careers. If you want to work on a high-quality, person-centered healthcare team, we can't wait to meet you!
Apply today! Please reach out to Grey Mora at tmora@kh.org or Front Desk 208-625-4620 or email careers@kh.org with any questions.
Kootenai Health complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sex. Kootenai Health does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sex.

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