Forensic Nurse Examiner

The Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) is a registered nurse who has completed the requirements set forth by the International Association of Forensic Nurse to become a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE).  The Forensic Nurse will provide timely, non-judgmental, compassionate care to the sexual assault client.  This may include a medical-forensic exam, prophylaxis for pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, photographic documentation, referrals for appropriate medical and psychological follow-up, support and participation in legal proceedings.  The FNE is expected to follow protocols established by the Medical Director and/or the Sexual Assault Center Director and policies of Crisis Line & Safe House.

Forensic Nurse Examiner Job Functions:

·        Coordinate call schedule with the Sexual Assault Center Director monthly, at a time prearranged by the Center Director.

·        Respond to a call within 10 minutes and to the patient within 30 – 40 minutes of the initial call.

·        Provide phone triage to determine if the patient is a candidate to present to the Center or if the patient needs to be seen at the local                 emergency department.

·        Coordinate care by all agencies involved and coordinate referrals for appropriate medical and psychological follow-up as needed.

·        Perform a complete medical and forensic examination.

·        Explain all options available to the patient so that he/she can make informed decisions.  

·        Collect evidence at the patient’s request, guided by the history given.

·        Document detailed injuries accurately with support of photographic evidence.

·        Maintain chain of custody to include evidence collected and the forensic medical records and adhere to release policy. 

·        Maintain professional standard including patient and medical record confidentiality

·        Administer appropriate medications per protocols. 

·        Provide testimony as a fact witness or expert witness when subpoenaed, to any cases performed while with CL&SH and coordinate                 with attorneys during judicial process.

·        Participate in case reviews at a minimum of 6 times per year.

·        Maintain client, shelter, and program security.

·        Assess client needs, provide crisis intervention, and assist in safety planning.

·        Acts as an on-call resource to victims seeking services

·        Adhere to departmental polices related to the care of sexual assault patients. 

·        Work collaboratively with program advocates, law enforcement and other community stakeholders 

Requirements of Position Applicants:

·       Graduate of an accredited school of nursing with a minimum of an ASN or Diploma Nurse.

·       Have an active Georgia RN license with no restrictions.

·        Have at least two years of direct patient care nursing experience preferred.

·        Maintain all requirements as required by the local hospitals for credentialing

·        Complete all hospital credentialing applications in a timely manner

·        Have completed the SANE requirements set forth by the International Association of Forensic Nurses and/or the national guidelines.

·        Maintains CPR

·        Able to work independently

·        Pass a criminal background check

·        Willing to submit to random drug screenings