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FOUNDERS
The Academy of Forensic Nursing Science was founded by four experienced clinical forensic professionals who have a wide array of experiences each spanning more than a decade. AFNS was established as a place for the practicing clinical forensic nurse and other interdisciplinary forensic specialists to network, share thoughts and ideas, and to provide a clearinghouse of useful information regarding contemporary trends and issues in the medico-legal setting. The founders believe that this contributes to the foundational underpinnings of the forensic nursing profession by expanding and extending suggestions and ideas, examining new scientific discoveries and practiced discoveries and establishing best practices.
FAYE BATTISTE-OTTO "I first entered the field of forensic science as a nurse examiner in 1985, being attracted to the specialty as a result of my experience in the Emergency Department where nurses are afforded the unique opportunity of being first to identify and observe victims of trauma. I applied this experience to structuring and conducting Sexual Assault Examiner training courses for nursing professionals and formed American Forensic Nurses, Inc., a provider of forensic services, offering sexual assault victim and suspect examinations, together with other forensic services to law enforcement agencies throughout southern California. With the ever expanding needs of society to ensure justice for both victims and offenders, it is imperative for nurses to broaden their professional knowledge and skills in the recognition and management of forensic scenarios."
JANET BARBER "I've been a nurse educator and mentor for almost as long as I've been a nurse." In the late 80s, I was introduced to forensic nursing by one of my graduate students, Virginia Lynch, who is generally regarded as the founder of forensic nursing. "She was determined to make me one her disciples, and now like Virginia and thousands of others; I'm fully immersed in nursing's newest specialty." In order to give other nurses easy access to a teacher and mentor, I joined colleagues in creating the Academy of Forensic Nursing Science. Our website is open 24/7 for networking, and there will always be new educational opportunities for those who share passion for forensic nursing. I hope that you'll join us and become an active participant in what promises to be an exciting, member-driven organization. "Let us know what we can do for you to help launch or advance your career in forensic nursing." That's our mission."
MARY SULLIVAN "I have been a psychiatric / mental health nurse since 1983 and discovered forensic nursing in 1994. After receiving training in sexual assault evidence collection and death investigation, I realized how much the knowledge base and skill sets of this subspecialty were applicable to clinical nursing practice for ALL nurses and in ALL areas of patient care. I believe that forensic science can enhance nursing practice on every level, including assessment and documentation skills in patient care delivery and better management of medical evidence in the healthcare environment. Further, I see nurses as essential members of the teams who investigate criminal cases in this arena including drug diversion, medical record tampering, research fraud, and serial murder by healthcare providers."
PAUL CLEMENTS "I have been a Forensic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse since 1995. Over the years, I am often asked how I can bear to work with children exposed to the homicide of a family member or other form of interpersonal violence or sudden traumatic death. Forensic Nursing has provided me the opportunity to feel like I am giving something back to the community. Most people who watch television newscasts believe this sort of thing happens to someone else; however for thousands of families each year, they find that someone else is now suddenly them. Through ongoing education and experience, including mentorship and education, I am able to provide psychotherapeutic support and guidance as families navigate the chaotic aftermath of sudden violent loss."