Archive for May, 2008

Forensic Pediatric Assessment

May 7, 2008

Pediatric forensic exams should be at a designated Pediatric SART facility. Forensic exams are difficult at best, but with the addition of the pediatric patient suddenly difficult takes on new meaning. Too many times in my 35 yr ED nursing career, I have seen pediatric forensic exams poorly handled by ED physicians pressed for time in a busy ED. Even if a SANE was available the physician would argue the fact with the attitude that they were in charge and ultimately responsible. Clearly some physicians do not understand the role of a SANE. SARTS should review current policies and every attempt should be made to have a designated Pediatric Forensics facility. Children would then be brought there where professionals skilled in the art of Pediatric and Forensic care, to minimize the already traumatized child while still performing competent evidence collection.

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Assessment Course

May 6, 2008

As a 1970 graduate of a diploma program, this assessment course seemed far more defined. My assessments were taught in chapters in my medsurg, peds and maternity nursing texts. Forensic nursing was never mentioned. I love doing and teaching assessments because I love a good challenge and every patient is one. My skills became more fine tuned after my forensics nursing class over 10 yrs ago. I love stories by Patrica Cornwell, Tess Geristen and some by Kathy Reichs although I find her writing less sophisticated and more predictable than the others. “Bones” a TV drama based on her works and experiences is far more interesting to me. If Forensic Nursing is not a required course in BSN programs today, in my opinion it should be. It would fine tune basic assessment, observation and interviewing skills which all benefit the care of the patient.

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