Hello everyone. I am new Nursing Link- heard about it from my sister- and I am currently a nursing student. I have medical experience in the past having worked my way up from CNA to Medical Assistant, phlebotomy, EMT... but now I have a question. The majority of my experience has been ER or critical care related, and I was also an E-911 supervisor for about 5 years. I love the ER setting, but also learned alot working with law enforcement and courts for a while. I have been thinking about Forensic Nursing, but some of the information on the web is confusing. I have found programs that range from advanced degrees to "simple" certifications?  I am a little confused and have requested information from various universities, but their mailed out information does not provide many answers, as they want you to come in for an interview, etc before they really start to give out specifics. What I envisioned was working in the ER full time and also working part time w/investigators office doing things like rape kits, etc and maybe the occassional death investigation assistance. I am originally from GA and the coroners program there-unless it has changed recently- was a 40 hour program thru the state law enforcement training center. I intend to return to GA after school and that is where I want to work, so I wanted to update my coroner certification also.

Does anyone work in the field or have any info you are willing to share? Does my "image" sound correct and appropriate or am I way off base? Any hints, tips or otherwise are greatly appreciated.

Right now, I am in my first year of an ADN program, but definitely plan to continue my education to at least an MSN level.

Thanks!

One of my old friends is a pioneer in the field she has written text books and developed programs around the country.

Here is a website that offers great info on Forensics and up to date info as well as a forum. The American Institute of Forensic Education.

http://www.educationforensic.com/index.html

Best of luck