Forensic Nursing & Legal Aspects: Evidence, Trauma, and Court Procedures

What is forensic science?

The application of specialized scientific and technical knowledge to questions of criminal or civil law.

What does forensic nursing involve?

The application of forensic aspects of health care combined with psychosocial education in the investigation and treatment of trauma, death, and violent/criminal activity.

What are some career opportunities in forensic nursing?

SANE Muse, DV Specialist, Forensic Interviewer, Legal Nurse Consultant, Nurse Attorney, and Grief Counselor.

What is the role of nurses in forensics?

Nurses have a crucial position in continuity of care from the first contact to trial, improving documentation and preservation of evidence.

What are common types of cases handled by forensic nurses?

Gunshot wounds, aggravated assault, sexual assaults, domestic violence, and child neglect.

What is the medical hearsay exemption?

It allows statements about a person's medical history to be admitted as evidence in court if made for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment.

What is the difference between choking and strangulation?

Choking occurs internally when something blocks the airway; strangulation occurs externally when pressure on the throat impedes breathing.

What are signs and symptoms of strangulation?

Petechiae, bald spots from hair pulling, difficulty breathing, and neck swelling.

What is rape trauma syndrome?

A condition characterized by emotional and physical symptoms following a sexual assault, including denial, fear, and physical trauma.

What are some long-term effects of trauma in children?

Depression, PTSD, functional impairment, and suicidal tendencies.

What is the importance of preserving evidence in forensic nursing?

To maintain the chain of custody and ensure evidence is admissible in court.

What does 'index of suspicion' refer to in forensic nursing?

The need to assess whether the story matches the injuries observed.

What are common somatic symptoms of trauma?

Headaches, gastrointestinal upset, and sleep disturbances.

What is the role of documentation in forensic nursing?

To accurately record evidence, interview techniques, and patient statements in direct quotes.

What are some psychological effects of family violence on victims?

Anxiety, self-blame, guilt, and increased emotional lability.

What is the significance of the forensic nurse in legal proceedings?

They provide critical evidence and testimony regarding the health and treatment of victims and offenders.

What is the impact of trauma on emotional health?

Can lead to intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and panic attacks.

What are the ethical concerns in forensic nursing?

Recognition of suspicious injuries, safeguarding evidence, and maintaining patient rights.

What is the role of a forensic nurse educator?

To train and educate future forensic nurses on best practices and protocols.

What is the purpose of a legal nurse consultant?

To provide expertise in legal cases involving medical issues.

What are some challenges faced by forensic nurses?

Balancing objectivity and advocacy while ensuring patient care and evidence preservation.

What is the significance of chain of custody in forensic evidence?

It ensures that evidence is collected, preserved, and documented properly to be admissible in court.

What are the signs of physical abuse in children?

Bruises, unexplained injuries, and behavioral changes.

What is the role of a forensic interviewer?

To conduct interviews with victims and witnesses in a manner that preserves evidence and elicits accurate information.

What is the primary difference between jail and prison?

Jail is for short-term confinement, while prison is for long-term confinement of individuals convicted of crimes.

How does incarceration affect life expectancy?

For every year of incarceration, a person's life expectancy is cut by 2 years.

What was the significance of the 1976 Supreme Court ruling regarding medical needs in prisons?

The ruling stated that deliberate indifference to medical needs constitutes cruel and unusual punishment.

What is a common cost associated with healthcare visits in Texas prisons?

A prison sick visit costs $13, while prisoners earn between 14-13 cents per hour.

What are some health disparities faced by incarcerated individuals?

Incarcerated people are more likely to have chronic health issues and mental health problems.

What is the average daily wage for prisoners?

The average minimum wage is $9.34 per day, with a maximum of $4.73 per day.

Why do incarcerated individuals often distrust the healthcare system?

The prison population, especially those aged 33-42, generally has high levels of distrust towards the healthcare system.

What impact did COVID-19 have on prison populations?

Over 3,000 individuals died from COVID-19 in prisons, with deaths increasing by 46% from 2019 to 2020.

What is the role of the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare?

It sets standards and offers accreditation to jails and prisons, although participation is optional.

What percentage of correctional facilities are accredited by the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare?

Only 12% of facilities are accredited.

What are the recourses available to incarcerated individuals for inadequate medical care?

Incarcerated individuals have limited recourse, primarily relying on litigation.

What are the common health issues faced by the incarcerated population?

Chronic diseases, psychiatric issues, infectious diseases, and violence are common health issues.

How does mass incarceration affect societal health?

Mass incarceration multiplies health issues on a societal level, exacerbating existing disparities.

What is the typical duration of stays in jail compared to prison?

Jail stays are generally shorter, often less than 1 year, while prison stays can range from several years to life sentences.

What is the purpose of jails?

Jails serve the purpose of short-term confinement for individuals awaiting trial or sentencing.

What is a significant challenge in assessing the quality of correctional healthcare?

Correctional healthcare is often of low quality and difficult to assess.

What is the impact of lack of standards in correctional healthcare?

Without standards, it is unclear what constitutes 'reasonably adequate' care.

What is the relationship between geriatric prisoners and health disparities?

The proportion of 'geriatric' prisoners is increasing, and health disparities are often more pronounced within the prison system.

What are the implications of prisoners being excluded from Medicaid coverage?

Prisoners must pay copays for healthcare, which can be equivalent to hundreds of dollars for those making minimal wages.

What does 'vulnerable' mean in the context of populations?

In need of special care, support, or protection due to age, disability, or risk of abuse or neglect.

What is a vulnerable population?

Groups/communities at higher risk for poor health due to barriers to social, economic, political, and environmental resources.

What are mandatory reporters?

Individuals, such as nurses, who are legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect.

What types of abuse must be reported for children?

Always suspected abuse or neglect, though specifics may vary by state.

What types of abuse are included under 'at risk' adults?

Physical, sexual, emotional, financial abuse, neglect, treatment without consent, and unreasonable confinement/restraint.

What does IPV stand for?

Intimate Partner Violence.

What are some examples of adverse childhood experiences?

Abuse, neglect, household challenges, mental illness, parental violence, divorce, incarcerated relatives, and substance abuse.

What is the purpose of a Children's Advocacy Center (CAC)?

To provide a multidisciplinary team approach to support child abuse victims.

When was the first Children's Advocacy Center established?

In 1985 in Huntsville, Alabama.

What is the MDT approach in child advocacy?

A collaborative approach involving assessment, intervention, prosecution, and investigation.

What is trauma-informed care?

An approach that emphasizes safety, trustworthiness, transparency, peer support, collaboration, and empowerment.

What should you do before touching a patient at risk of dissociation?

Ask for permission.

What is the role of clear and consistent messaging in trauma-informed care?

To provide patients with understandable information about services and roles.

What should be practiced regardless of trauma exposure?

Universal precautions.

What is the significance of using plain language in communication with patients?

To ensure understanding and facilitate effective communication.

What is the goal of anticipatory guidance in nursing practices?

To prepare patients for what to expect during interactions.

What are some barriers that vulnerable populations face?

Social, economic, political, and environmental limitations.

What is the impact of domestic violence on vulnerable populations?

It can lead to various forms of abuse and long-term psychological effects.

How many child abuse professionals have been trained by the NCAC since 1985?

More than 282,849 professionals.

What is the role of law enforcement in the MDT approach?

To investigate cases of child abuse and collaborate with other professionals.