The profession of nursing is expected to grow over 27% through the year 2018. Along with the predicted rise in nursing jobs is the expectation that the number of people over the age of 65 will make up 19% of the total U.S. population by the year 2030. Some professionals are choosing to complete accelerated BSN program (bachelor of science in nursing) degrees in order to specialize as forensic geriatric nurses in the growing elderly population.
What is a Forensic Geriatric Nurse?
A Forensic Geriatric Nurse investigates and cares for victims of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, most often a graduate of an accelerated BSN program. Forensic Geriatric Nurses are often employed by long-term care facilities, and other times establish their own practices. Sample duties of a forensic geriatric nurse with a BSN degree include: Taking photos of injuries to a newly admitted elderly patient. Conducting patient and family interviews. Analyzing evidence to determine the presence or absence of ill treatment.
Required Education to Become a Forensic Geriatric Nurse
Forensic Geriatric Nurses must be licensed as Registered Nurses in the U.S. Registration may be obtained through completing a hospital diploma, associate degree, or BSN nursing degree. Training in forensic science subjects, such as photography, wound identification, and evidence preservation and collection are extremely helpful in addition to completing an accelerated BSN program.
Nurses interested in becoming a Forensic Geriatric Nurse have many options to choose from. BSN nursing schools, such as Kaplan University, offer educational programs that lead to an accelerated BSN program diploma or a Forensic Nursing Certificate. Many hospitals also have internship opportunities for students wishing to gain practical work experience in the field of forensic nursing. Prospective students interested in learning more information about becoming a Forensic Geriatric Nurse may visit the International Association of Forensic Nurses website or College-Pages.com, a leading education and career resource website.