RN-SAFE-Emergency Room

Job Objective:

Under the direction of and reporting to the Emergency Department Director and SAFE RN Coordinator, the forensic nurse examiner conducts medical/forensic examinations on patients of sexual assault, interpersonal violence, strangulation, or other physical trauma, including suspect examinations as requested.

Essential Responsibilities:

•       Demonstrates compliance with Code of Conduct and compliance policies, and takes action to resolve compliance questions or concerns and report suspected violations.
•       Maintains a safe clinical environment by upholding infection control policies, equipment maintenance, preventive cleaning procedures, and occupational health requirements.
•       Completes all mandatory reporting for healthcare providers, including suspected child abuse and/or elder abuse as required by California Penal Code.
•       Demonstrates inclusivity and respect when working with people of various sexual orientations and culturally diverse communities.
•       Performs accurate documentation in electronic medical records, and ensures compliance with standards of care, ethical practice, and regulatory guidelines.
•       Integrates forensic and nursing sciences in the assessment and care of individuals across the lifespan affected by physical, psychological, or social violence including but not limited to sexual assault, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, physical abuse, neglect, elder abuse, and violence resulting in severe injury or death.
•       Responsible for carrying the team consult phone for the duration of the shift and responding promptly to facilitate community reports for patients requiring examinations.
•       Obtains appropriate consents for lab work, photography, and forensic examination.
•       Performs forensic examinations per protocol and provides nonjudgmental, unbiased, compassionate care.
•   Performs detailed general and anogenital examinations for the detection of physical findings to inform diagnosis and treatment. Report any findings that may require medical intervention to Emergency Department staff and physicians.
•   Obtains assault history per Cal-OES requirements.
•   Evaluates pregnancy risk and offers emergency contraception. Evaluates and treats prophylactically for sexually transmitted infections and HIV. Is able to safely administer medications with knowledge of pharmacologic effects and complications.
•   Provides timely, thorough, and professional forensic evidence collection, documentation, and preservation of evidence. Ensures chain of custody is maintained and evidence is handled properly.
•   Accurately assesses, photographs, and documents findings on appropriate forms following pre-established state medical protocol.
•   Provides discharge instructions and education.
•   Testifies as a fact and an expert witness when subpoenaed.
•   Maintains knowledge of anatomy and physiology related to interpersonal violence, strangulation, and sexual assault, and effectively communicate medical terminology to a jury.
•   Remains up to date on current legislative guidelines related to treatment and documentation standards for forensic medical patients.
•   Appropriately refers patients for immediate and follow-up medical care and/or counseling.
•   Participates in peer review, process improvement, and quality review.
•   Ensures professional growth and development by participating in and utilizing current evidence-based information and keeping current with standards in forensic nursing practice.
•   Responsible for traveling and providing services at various facilities to meet patient needs.
•   Works collaboratively with community partners including but not limited to law enforcement, office of the district attorney, Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, advocacy centers, Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, and Department of Justice Crime Lab.

Essential Skils:

• Strong analytical skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Knowledge of anatomy and physiology related to interpersonal violence, including sexual assault
• Ability use computer, printer, and software/storage programs necessary to the position
• Ability to communicate and relate positively, effectively, and professionally with others
• Frequent changes in position during routine examination are required which usually entails sitting, squatting and standing
• Knowledge of current federal, state and local standards for evidence collection
• Ability to provide crisis intervention/counseling
• Assist patients with ambulation, positioning and wheelchair/gurney placement
• Knowledge of forensic documentation, as well as testifying as both an expert and fact witness
• Ability to work with persons from culturally diverse communities
• Frequent lifting and carrying of objects weighing approximately ten pounds or less
• Knowledge of the prosecution process and evidentiary collection, including biological, photographic and trace evidence, procedures related to the forensic/medical examination of patients
• Ability to work independently without supervision; but is strong team player
• Ability to write legibly with professional quality