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Forensic Rn Jobs in Cleveland, OH (NOW HIRING)

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Forensic Rn information

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$15

$30

$49

How much do forensic rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic rn in Cleveland, OH is $30.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $36.11 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.
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Infographic showing various Forensic Rn job openings in Cleveland, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,619 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Pediatric Emergency Forensic Registered Nurse

University Hospitals

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

University Hospitals rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 626 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

301st of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The Pediatric Emergency Forensic Registered Nurse will be guided by the Pediatric Emergency Nurse job description and will function as a Pediatric Emergency Room Nurse when not working as a forensic nurse. 

This bedside nursing role will provide additional support to our pediatric sexual assault patients when they arrive in our emergency room.

Position Description:

  • Provides safe efficient age specific nursing care to patients and families using the nursing process in order to assist them to attain, maintain, regain, and sustain optimal health status.

  • Implements the nursing process by delivering effective relationship based nursing care.

  • Demonstrates technical skills in care delivery that result in safe practice and positive care outcomes.

  • Demonstrates clear communication and effective collaboration to optimize patient care and clinical operations.

  • Develops self and contributes to the professional practice of nursing.

  • Displays leadership that influences optimal clinical and operational outcomes.

  • ACLS/PALS may be required based on clinical area standards.

  • A minimum of 4 hours per week will be dedicated to ongoing forensic training, and allotted time for testimony requirements.

Schedule:

  • Full time:    

  • Evening/Night Rotation 

  • Other scheduling options may be available based on unit availability and candidate experience 

  • Position will require weekend and holiday coverage with a minimum requirement of 36 hours on-call per 6-week schedule.

 Trainings will include:

  • Completion of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner 40-hour course for the Pediatric/Adolescents, accredited by the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN).

  • Completed additional training with community partners working with victims of crime including: (4) hours courtroom  observation,(2) hours Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, (2) hours Cleveland Sex Crime department, (4) hours Bureau of Criminal Investigation Department

**Please Note: Additionally trainings and certifications specific to SANE and forensic exams will be required as a part of this role. All initial trainings and any certification necessary for this position will be supported and funded through UH.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

  • Complies with all policies and standards.

  • For specific duties and responsibilities, refer to documentation provided by the department during orientation.

  • Must abide by all requirements to safely and securely maintain Protected Health Information (PHI) for our patients. Annual training, the UH Code of Conduct and UH policies and procedures are in place to address appropriate use of PHI in the workplace.

Experience and Education Requirements:

  • 1 year licensed RN experience required. 

  • Strongly prefer RN candidates with ED, SANE and/or forensic exam experience

 Education Requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing preferred.

  • Minimum of Diploma/Associate’s Degree in nursing from accredited program.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Knowledge of nursing process and practice. (Required proficiency)
  • Uses a wide variety of technical equipment to meet patient needs and prescribed clinical therapies (ie. stethoscopes, thermometers, sphygmomanometers and electronic monitoring devices. (Required proficiency)

Licenses and Certifications 

  • Registered Nurse (RN), Ohio and/or Multi State Compact License (Required Upon Hire) and
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) (Required Upon Hire)
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) May be required based on the clinical care standards of the unit. Refer to ACLS/PALS Unit Requirements document found on DWP Nursing Portal to determine requirements by unit.
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) May be required based on the clinical care standards of the unit. Refer to ACLS/PALS Unit Requirements document found on DWP Nursing Portal to determine requirements by unit.

Physical Demands
 

  • Standing Frequently
  • Walking Frequently
  • Sitting Rarely
  • Lifting Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Carrying Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Pushing Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Pulling Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Climbing Occasionally up to 50 lbs
  • Balancing Occasionally
  • Stooping Frequently
  • Kneeling Frequently
  • Crouching Frequently
  • Crawling Occasionally
  • Reaching Frequently
  • Handling Frequently
  • Grasping Frequently
  • Feeling Constantly
  • Talking Constantly
  • Hearing Constantly
  • Repetitive Motions Constantly
  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination Constantly

Travel Requirements
 

  • 10%

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About University Hospitals

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For more than 155 years, University Hospitals has been on a mission to heal, teach and discover. As a renowned academic medical center and community hospital network, we’ve expanded across Northeast Ohio to deliver what matters most to our patients: personalized, compassionate care; medical discovery and breakthroughs; and high-quality, affordable care close to home.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US

Year founded

1866

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