thinking of doing the Kaplan course, but unsure

Editorial Team / Admin · Dec 26, 2005

I am considering doing the Kaplan online forensic certificate course, but I was unsure of what kind of job market forensic nursing offers. I would hate to spend the $3400 to complete the program and then not be able to find a job! What is the job market like?? I also wouldn't be able to do it unless it would pay me at least what I am making now working nights in a hospital ICU with 4 years experience as a nurse. If anybody has any advice, I'd love to hear it. Thanks!

Hello, nursechick182,:Melody:

Have you checked with ME's in your area? Scoped out possibilities in your area? That is one place you should start.

nursechick182, BSN, RN · Dec 27, 2005

Thank you for responding. Yes, I have checked. From what I have seen, all positions are filled at the current time.

Editorial Team / Admin · Dec 27, 2005

thank you for responding. yes, i have checked. from what i have seen, all positions are filled at the current time.

hello, nursechick,

there are nurses who specialize in forensics and then go on to become coroner. they sub-specialize as death investigators (di).

some counties in texas utilize the fndi (forensic nurse death investigator). not sure which ones, however.

the american academy of forensic sciences (aafs) and the american college of forensic examiners (acfe) offer support professionally and networking opportunities.

the inernational association of forensic nurses (iafn) provides valuable information for the defining role of the forensic nurse as well as networking opportunities. i suggest contacting them first www.iafn.org they also develop standards for certification.

you may be able to volunteer in an me/coroner office to gather further info, too.

then, a few nurses who are forensic specialists do the sexual assault nurse examiner (sane). www.forensicnurse.org

http://www.sane-sart.com/

many forensic nurse specialists testify in court as expert witnessses, too. this is a most valuable way to work in this field.

i suggest you have a strong background in the emergency department as well.

the field is wide open. you will need to learn where to find the need (which is everywhere, even in hospitals), and, market yourself.

good luck.

obliviousRN · Feb 26, 2006

I did the Kaplan program. I also went through separate state courses for SANE and Deputy Medical Examiner. I use my forensic knowledge on a daily basis (including just simple wound indentification in the ER for MVC's, assaults, etc). JCAHO is looking at requiring forensic nurses on staff in the future. We're a great asset for any hospital.

As far as pay goes.............. it will all depend on how you function and who your hiring entity is. Working out of an ER will get you ER wages. Working out of an ME or Coroner's office will get you different wages vs. salaries. If you remain open to different job descriptions and roles, you can go far with a forensic certificate.

Good luck!

cmspedsrn · Mar 17, 2006

I just started the a Kaplan Course. Can a nurse really get a job in forensics with just a certificate from an online course? I hope so!

Editorial Team / Admin · Mar 17, 2006

I just started the a Kaplan Course. Can a nurse really get a job in forensics with just a certificate from an online course? I hope so!

Hello, cmspedsrn,:balloons:

I think you will have no problem at all. Many individuals do their nursing courses online. I do not see any difference even though yours is a certificate of education. I did not do online, but have certifications and have zero problem in my career choice/s.

Don't sell yourself short, it is not just a certificate. It is proof of added specialty, knowledge and proficiency on your part.

Good luck with this very intriguing career choice.