Soon-to-be LPN interested in Forensics

Specialties Forensic

Published

Hi everyone! I'm new here as of today - thank you for your time...

I am in my last 3 months of an LPN program and I think I've finally found my nitch. Although I plan to continue for my RN, I really want to specialize in forensics. I "knew" at age 15 I wanted to be a coroner. Well at 32, I am just now finishing my LPN diploma - investigating the deaths on a surface level may be more up my alley at this point.

I have checked out (and I am aware of) the SANE certificate, but I really feel working with crime scene investigation is where my heart lies.

Can anyone recommend what my next step in schooling should be? I'm sure I will need to complete an RN bridge program as planned, but after that - what should I do?

I live in Florida (I don't know if that has anything to do with anything) but trying to get answers is nearly impossible!

Any help or suggestions would be welcomed with open arms and greatly appreciated!

Thanks :)

Angie

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Specializes in Forensic/Psych/Surgical nurse.

This may be a little late, but I think you should check out the IAFN (International Association of Forensic Nurses) website if you have not already done so. If nothing else, you can click on their 'Contact Us' button and ask questions. This association would probably be the most accurate and helpful in your search.

I know there are no straight answers out there. I'm in the same boat you are.

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IAFN - Got it! Thank you so much for responding!

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Specializes in Near Future: ED, Future Future: ACNP!.
Hi everyone! I'm new here as of today - thank you for your time...

I am in my last 3 months of an LPN program and I think I've finally found my nitch. Although I plan to continue for my RN, I really want to specialize in forensics. I "knew" at age 15 I wanted to be a coroner. Well at 32, I am just now finishing my LPN diploma - investigating the deaths on a surface level may be more up my alley at this point.

I have checked out (and I am aware of) the SANE certificate, but I really feel working with crime scene investigation is where my heart lies.

Can anyone recommend what my next step in schooling should be? I'm sure I will need to complete an RN bridge program as planned, but after that - what should I do?

I live in Florida (I don't know if that has anything to do with anything) but trying to get answers is nearly impossible!

Any help or suggestions would be welcomed with open arms and greatly appreciated!

Thanks :)

Angie

Funny thing Angie, I am in the exact opposite situation as you. I have my Master's in Forensics and wanted to investigate crime scenes when I was younger. The more I got through schooling, the more I realized I did not like the prospect of becoming jaded and cynical and dealing with decomposing bodies all the time. Now I am going to school to be an RN! Patients are generally not decomposing when they get to the hospital! LOL! I do wish to be a certified forensic nurse though.

You should contact your local law enforcement agencies and medical examiner's office and ask them how and if they use RNs (that varies). Also, look on the FBI website at the nurse consultant positions available, just to see what they are. That will give a good idea of what is out there.

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Great advice and information from both sides. I've always been interested in forensic science so this was helpful. Thanks!

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