Forensic professional's thoughts on New Zealand emergency nurse's forensic science knowledge and practice.

INTRODUCTION

The clinical forensic nursing role in emergency departments is a recognised nursing speciality globally but there is no designated clinical forensic role in New Zealand nor is their adequate tertiary education despite New Zealand emergency nurses being expected to be able to complete these duties if required. The study sought to find out the perceptions of forensic professionals about 1) how well if at all forensic protocols and practices are adhered to by emergency nurses in New Zealand, 2) what areas of forensic practice if any do ED nurses need tertiary training in to effectively care for patients with health conditions related to violence, and, 3) what relationship exists between emergency nurses and forensic professionals.

METHODS

Health professionals in forensic nursing roles were invited to complete an anonymous, online survey consisting of Likert scale questions and free text commentary. A descriptive, content analysis of the data was undertaken.

RESULTS

Content analysis described, incorrect evidence collection, erroneous chain of custody errors, limited relationship between emergency nurses and forensic professionals and clear support for a postgraduate clinical forensic nursing programme.

DISCUSSION

This study identified that forensic science knowledge and practices by emergency nurses are inadequate for the work they are required to undertake, suggesting that additional professional development is warranted in order to maintain best practice standards for forensic emergency care.