I really enjoyed Polly Campbell’s presentation on Forensic Nursing. I’ve been interested in medical law and attended a class for Forensics and Introduction to Criminal Justice. My biggest takeaway from this presentation is the words of Edmond Locard. This man is named the “father of criminalistics” and he is known for his impactful words that “every contact leaves a trace.” This quote stood out to me because it can be interpreted in many different ways. For example, a patient will forever be changed mentally and emotionally by the traumatic events of abuse. On the other hand, the abuse can leave physical markings and evidence. The “traces” that Edmond Locard is referring to can be physical, mental, and emotional remnants of the many different types of interpersonal violence. A Forensic Nurse has the extremely important role of providing specialized care for the physical, mental, and emotional remains of these incidents. These types of nurses are in charge of providing a full head-to-toe assessment that is similar to what I have been learning in school. The major difference between the assessment I’ve learned in school and Forensic Nursing is that they are also collecting evidence that may be used for future prosecutions. These Nurses have the extraordinary ability to testify in the course as an expert witnesses or as fact, with the evidence being the nursing processes that they conducted in the hospital settings. This ability amazes me and sparks my interest in this specialty of the medical field. I hope to reach out to Professor Campbell to gather more information on this incredible field.
