Being a forensic nurse examiner can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding, offering the chance to make a significant difference in individuals' lives and the broader community.

Many forensic nurses express a deep sense of fulfillment from their work. Helping victims in their time of need and contributing to the judicial process provides a meaningful sense of purpose.

As awareness of forensic nursing grows, so does the demand for our specially trained professionals. The unique skills of forensic nurse examiners make us invaluable in many settings—hospitals, community health organizations, law enforcement agencies, and more—providing robust job security.

Adult Tele-Forensic Interview

What does a forensic nurse examiner do?

Upon joining our team, a forensic nurse examiner will perform medical forensic exams on victims across the lifespan of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, child abuse/neglect, elder abuse, and other abuse or violence trauma. The patient population includes those that are affected by violence and are at the intersection of legal and medical intervention. Our care includes the seven steps of the Medical Forensic Exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're interested in becoming a forensic nurse examiner, you probably have a lot of questions about the field, the career path, and what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions with their answers:

  • Be a Registered Nurse licensed in the State of Texas
  • Have a minimum of 12 months of work experience in an emergency department or other critical care environment
  • Complete 40 hours of didactic (classroom) training as specified by IAFN standards
  • Complete clinical rotations and training per TXFNE guidelines and IAFN standards
  • Have a valid driver’s license
  • Be eligible to work in the United States
  • Be willing to complete SANE-A and SANE-P certification within 2 years and CITI training as needed
  • Be able to lift materials weighing up to 20 pounds
  • Be able to type 40 words per minute

Beyond general nursing education, forensic nurse examiners receive specialized training in conducting forensic exams, collecting and preserving evidence, and understanding the legal implications of their findings. Training programs often include courses on handling victims of sexual assault and violence sensitively and effectively.

  • IAFN approved Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Course (SANE-A and/or SANE-P)
  • SANE Course: Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner for Adult, Adolescent, and Pediatric
  • 2 Day Clinical Skills Workshop
  • Clinical Training Site/Preceptorships
  • Advanced Forensic Photography

Important skills include attention to detail, emotional resilience, strong communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a thorough understanding of legal and professional standards for collecting and handling evidence.

Certification can be obtained through the International Association of Forensic Nurses. For example, to become a certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), you must complete clinical training that includes supervised practice exams and didactic training. There are specific requirements for adult/adolescent and pediatric certifications.

  • Maintain a schedule of on-call and/or on-site shifts, including overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts
  • Respond to TXFNE’s designated hospitals or any other TXFNE location within ninety minutes (90) of being contacted for a patient exam
  • Perform medical forensic exams on victims across the lifespan of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, child abuse/neglect, elder abuse, and other abuse or violence trauma. Patient Population includes those that are affected by violence and are at the intersection of legal and medical intervention. Our care includes the seven steps of the NUFE
  • Administer prophylactic medications and emergency contraception per TXFNE policy as guided by CDC Recommendations
  • Assess for mandatory reporting status and report when appropriate
  • Maintain a chain of custody and adhere to evidence guidelines
  • Ensure patient/medical record confidentiality at all time (HIPPA)
  • Maintain professional standards that do not create a conflict of interest with employment or patient care
  • Testify as fact and expert witness to any/all cases performed while employed with TXFNE, even if the employee is no longer employed with TXFNE
  • Attend monthly peer reviews, staff meetings and quarterly self-care activities