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Forensic Rn Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... both the forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties following established ... This applies to direct care staff (Examples: RN, LPN, Nurse Aides, Therapists) referred to Kentucky ...

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Forensic Rn information

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$16

$31

$51

How much do forensic rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic rn in Virginia is $31.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $37.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Forensic RN?

A Forensic RN (Registered Nurse) is a specially trained nurse who provides care to patients who are victims or perpetrators of trauma, violence, or abuse, while also collecting evidence for legal investigations. These nurses play a critical role in bridging the gap between healthcare and the legal system by documenting injuries, collecting forensic evidence, and sometimes providing expert testimony in court. Forensic RNs work in various settings, including hospitals, sexual assault response teams, and correctional facilities. Their work ensures that victims receive appropriate medical care and that crucial evidence is preserved for legal proceedings.

What does a Forensic RN do?

A forensic registered nurse (RN) assists law enforcement officers by helping to obtain evidence of crimes while caring for victims. In this role, you may work in a hospital emergency room, social services organization, or with a medical examiner. You provide medical care to victims and recover evidence, such as bullets or clothing. Forensic RNs may also take photographs of wounds and document your observations and conversations with the victims; all documentation must follow specific procedures and regulations to ensure the evidence is admissible in court. If a case goes to trial, a forensic RN can give testimony as an expert witness. Some forensic RNs choose to specialize in particular areas, such as death investigations, psychiatric forensic nursing, or domestic violence and sexual assault.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic RN?

To thrive as a Forensic RN, you need a solid nursing background with specialized training in forensic evidence collection, trauma assessment, and legal documentation, typically supported by RN licensure and a forensic nursing certification (such as SANE). Familiarity with forensic examination tools, chain-of-custody protocols, and documentation systems is essential. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help Forensic RNs support victims and collaborate with law enforcement. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate evidence collection, comprehensive patient care, and the integrity of legal proceedings.

How do Forensic RNs typically collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams during investigations?

Forensic Registered Nurses (RNs) often work closely with law enforcement officers and legal professionals to ensure accurate evidence collection and documentation. They may be called upon to testify in court, provide expert opinions, and explain medical findings related to trauma or abuse cases. Effective communication and meticulous record-keeping are essential, as their documentation may be scrutinized during legal proceedings. This collaborative environment ensures that both the medical and legal needs of the case are addressed with precision and care.

What is the difference between Forensic Rn vs Forensic Nurse?

AspectForensic RnForensic Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN), specialized training in forensic scienceRegistered Nurse (RN), often with additional forensic certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, law enforcement agencies, crime labsHospitals, clinics, law enforcement, forensic units
Industry UsageLegal cases, crime scene investigations, victim advocacyVictim support, evidence collection, court testimony

Both Forensic Rns and Forensic Nurses are registered nurses with specialized training in forensic science. While their work environments and roles overlap, Forensic Rns often focus on legal cases and crime scene investigations, whereas Forensic Nurses may work more directly with victims and evidence collection in clinical settings. Both roles are vital in the intersection of healthcare and the legal system.

Are forensic nurses in demand?

Forensic nurses are in increasing demand due to the growing need for specialized healthcare providers in criminal justice and legal settings. They often work in hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and forensic laboratories, requiring certification and strong clinical skills. The job outlook for forensic nursing is positive, with opportunities expanding as awareness of their role in evidence collection and victim advocacy grows.

Do forensic nurses get paid more?

Forensic nurses generally earn higher salaries than standard registered nurses due to specialized training in forensic evidence collection, legal procedures, and working in high-stakes environments such as hospitals, law enforcement agencies, or forensic labs. Salary levels can vary based on experience, certifications, and geographic location, but their specialized skills often lead to increased compensation compared to general nursing roles.

What job categories do people searching Forensic Rn jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Rn jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Forensic Rn jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Forensic Rn job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Rn job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,905 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Patient Safety Associate - Emergency Dept - Rotating - PRN

South Hill, VA • On-site


VCU Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 171 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

301st of 898 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$16 - $23.53/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

12 hour shifts depending on needs; no guarantee of hours; Must work at least 2 twelve hour shifts every 6 weeks.
The Patient Safety Associate (PSA) provides 1:1 safety observation and basic direct patient care, under the direction of the RN to include, but not limited to direct visual observation, verbal re-direction, safety checks, environment check care and comfort, personal care and hygiene, ADLs and mobility/fall prevention. The PSA serves as a liaison between patient and nurse to report concerns or changes to nurse on duty, providing customer service to patient, patient family and visitors and if applicable, provides documentation for patient care.
Essential Function
Provides 1:1 safety observation for patients requiring safety observation, including, but not limited to high risk suicidal, psychiatric, medical and surgical compromised patients with dementia, delirium, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse withdrawal and other diagnoses for potential patient harm.
Provides the appropriate verbal intervention/de-escalation with the patient, Provides patient with explanation of care as necessary, but does not counsel or offer opinion.
Maintains environment conductive to patient safety and recovery, including, but not limited to safety checks, environment of care room checks for ligature points and contraband, keeping patient room clean and organized, changing bed linens, and emptying linen bins.
Under the direction of RN or independent licensed practitioner, the Patient Safety Associate provides safe and direct care to patients on their assigned units making age appropriate adjustments as needed. Care is given to patients with and without medical complications to meet their comfort, ADL's, such as personal hygiene IE: bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating and safety needs. Care will be in accordance with nursing and medical plans of care and delivery per VCUHS Nursing and Hospital policy and procedure. Upon discovery, the Patient Safety Associate immediately reports any incident posing harm or threat to a patient to the supervising RN or independent licensed practitioner.
Under the direction of an RN or independent licensed practitioner, the Patient Safety Associate identifies own learning needs and demonstrates a commitment to meeting those needs. Work behaviors comply with written clinical and administrative directives. Individual communication skills are demonstrated in all interactions with members of the healthcare team. Interaction problems with co-workers are resolved at time of occurrence or reported to supervisor. Attends staff meetings or reads minutes as evidenced by signature on minutes. Participates in mandatory CA activities and unit-based QA/CQI activities.
Using established written, oral and electronic communication systems, the Patient Safety Associate documents patient care and clinical support activities in accordance with VCUHS Hospital and Nursing policies, procedures and standards of care within specified time frames. Documentation completed for 100% of assigned patients and pertinent patient observations reported to the supervising RN or independent licensed practitioner.
Performs other duties as assigned and/or participates in special projects in order to support the mission of VCUHS and department; Provides assistance to team members; Accepts alternate assignments, as required, graciously.
Required Education: High school diploma or GED
Preferred Education:
Certified Nursing Assistant or Medical Assistant program
Current enrollment (or planned) in accredited school in healthcare and/or humanities related associates or baccalaureate IE: Nursing, Medical, PT/OT, Pharmacy, Health Administration, Dental, Nutrition, PA, Psychology, Sociology, Biology, Chemistry, Forensics
Licensure/Certification Required: Current AHA BLC HCP certification
Licensure/Certification Preferred: Certified Nursing Assistant or Medical Assistant
Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: ONE-year experience as a certified nurse assistant or medical assistant. ONE-year experience in healthcare related field with direct patient care
Compensation Range: $16.00 - $23.53
Actual salary offers will be based on several key factors to include relevant work experience, credentials, and qualifications.
Rotating
EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran


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