Forensic Nursing - The New and Exciting Career Option

By Caleb Joseph


With the continuing rise in crime rates, forensic nursing is becoming a popular part of the American judicial system and one of the booming career options. This new form of nursing is one of the newest forms of forensic sciences recognized by the American Nurses Association. The most interesting facet of this new nursing field is it combines the health care profession with the judicial system. Adding to this, forensic nurses may provide care to victims of violent crime, perform crime scene investigations or may even work as detectives in a clinical setting to assist police catch and condemn perpetrators.

The most important duty in forensic nursing is assisting in the physical and emotional recovery of patients while protecting their rights. A forensic nurse also works in collecting and documenting facts while treating patients. A forensic nurse may serve as legal nurse consultant or attorney.

Nursing education begins at the level of nurse's aide, which requires less than 150 hours of course and hands-on work. An LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse, can be earned in a year. A registered nurse requires a 2 to 4 year degree. A nurse practitioner needs even more higher education. A CRNA needs 2 to 3 years past the RN level. You can begin working in the nursing field as an aide in only a few weeks time; the higher training and better salary will come to you down the road. Please beware that nursing qualifications vary tremendously across the world.

It is important to pick a school with both solid academic and solid clinical programs - this way you will have a solid grasp on your new profession. While more education may be overwhelming if you don't like school, don't worry. The majority of the work is practical and hands-on. The academics are applicable to what you are doing so they are easier to deal with. New Nursing Schools.

So are you excited about being a nurse? Is it time to consider nursing school? It sure is. When you are choosing the best nursing school for you, a few things to consider are:Location is key. Most colleges have a nursing program, even the ones near you. Your local community college can help get you into the nursing world in as little as two years. Accreditation - Be sure you go to an accredited nursing school. NLNAC, National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission assures the quality of your nursing education, making sure you are prepared for your exams and are ready to enter into the nursing world immediately after graduating Tuition is a factor for everyone. Don't break the bank going to nursing school - community colleges, state colleges, and hospitals programs will help you in this area. Nurses are in high demand, and as long as you are able to learn the information and pass exams, you will be able to find work. Schedules - If you are going to nursing school full time, schedules won't matter to you much. But many people in nursing school are going part time. Be sure to check when schools offer courses and even look into distance education where you learn through online classes. Requirements for Admissions - Many nursing schools require pre-reqs like math, English, computers, biology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and there may be other basic knowledge that you must be proficient in. Clinical Rotation - Be sure you have the opportunity to explore and participate in the hands-on clinical work. This way you will be able to find a specialty that you enjoy and love - something that always makes it easier to work with a smile on your face. NCLEX Exam Pass Rates - See what percentage of students/graduates are able to pass the National Council Licensure Exam immediately after graduation. If pass rates are high, that is a good sign. If your chosen nursing school meets all of your standards for the above criteria, it's time to register for classes. It's time to take control of your life and begin the journey to financial comfort. You will know you are in a profession where you are needed and you will never have to worry about being outsourced overseas. But the biggest benefit of all is being able to sleep easier knowing you're making the world a better place by doing what you love.




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