Network of Victim Assistance of Bucks County honored a special group of health professionals during Forensic Nurses Week, Nov. 8-12. Forensic Nurses are trained to treat the trauma associated with various forms of violence, including sexual assault, domestic abuse, or other types of intentional injury. These superheroes serve as the backbone for anti-violence efforts, advocacy and care. The work they do is integral to the safety and justice of victims, as well as to the overall mission of violence prevention and education.
Forensic Nurses are registered and/or advanced practice nurses who receive specialized education and training for treating patients that have been impacted by injury associated with victimization or violence. Additionally, they provide consultation and testimonies for criminal cases related to victimization. In order to be a forensic nurse, one must become a registered nurse first and then become certified in forensic nursing. These nurses frequently work in hospitals, anti-violence organizations and medical examiners offices.
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners have specialized expertise when it comes to identifying physical and psychological trauma associated with sexual assault, and they provide services such as emergency medical care, discharge planning, collecting evidence, recording forensic narratives, and providing referrals so that the patient can receive continuous care.
NOVA is honoring the hard work and commitment of its team of nurses who are specialized in this field. NOVA said Forensic Nurses should be appreciated for all of the work that they do to protect and represent victims of violence and abuse. NOVA would not be the organization it is today without the dedication and specialized knowledge of its team of Forensic Nurses who meet both the medical and emotional needs of patients and survivors.
“The Forensic Nurses who work with NOVA provide a specialized service that takes dedication and fortitude,” said Tarah Sellers, director of client services at NOVA. “This week, we celebrate you, your service, and your labor of love. You are phenomenal nurses who deserve honor and recognition. Thank you for the difficult and often heartbreaking work that you do each and every day. Nursing is a difficult, challenging and sometimes thankless profession. Great nurses like you deserve appreciation like no one else.”
NOVA is currently looking to hire additional Forensic Nurses. Applicants should submit a resume with a cover letter and salary requirements to careers@novabucks.org with the subject line “Forensic Nurse.”
Visit novabucks.org for more information.
