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The Professional Development of Forensic Nurses
By Julie A. Jervis, MD, RN

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Support From Colleagues is Essential

By Mary Kathryn Stapleton, RN, BA, CLC, CHS-II, CPHA

As an RN, I loved primary nursing and patient care. I have always been a strong patient advocate and took a holistic approach to my duties. I was proud of my profession, so it was devastating when I hurt my neck and back while on duty. I could no longer fully physically meet the challenges of everyday nursing. I was forced to make changes in my work routines that became permanent and mandatory for my own safety and future employment. The shock of my injury gave way to despair and depression. I had two small children to raise, and my husband and I were counting on my continued income as a nurse.

I was feeling sorry for myself one day, when a good friend contacted me with information about continuing education opportunities. What began as a supportive chat between fellow nurses led me to change my attitude and put me on the path to a new nursing career. Within weeks I was taking classes in forensic science, and then medical legal consulting. I was alive again. I was going to turn this injury of mine into an opportunity for growth and change. Now, here I am down the road, a new and improved nurse. I have always loved anything related to forensic science; I find it to be interesting and challenging.

I opened my own company last year and I have gathered as consultants the finest group of healthcare professionals that I could find. It will take time for the business to grow, but I’ve got all the time in the world. My life keeps getting more complex and interesting. In January, I began teaching forensic science to nurses, and I am thrilled to be entrusted with the privilege. I am grateful to my fellow nurses for being so supportive.

I have noticed over the years that nurses tend to be friendly no matter where you meet them; it is like an instant worldwide sorority of nurses. I encourage nurses of all ages and backgrounds to nurture and support each other, because I would not be where I am today if it were not for my nursing friends. I applaud the noble vocation of nursing. In a time when there are nursing shortages everywhere, I hope that more men and women will continue in the field and promote its growth.

I am still quite proud of my profession, and I hope you are, too. Take a moment to pat yourselves on the back. Remember the times you held your patients’ hands, looked into their eyes and comforted them. Remember the pain you alleviated, the fears you calmed and the ruffled feathers you smoothed over the years. Remember the families you helped. Remember the times you were there for people, then go look in the mirror at yourself and smile. You are wonderful people. You do wonderful things, work very hard and give a lot of yourself in doing so; never lose that. I am so very proud to be in your company.

Stapleton is president of Stapleton Forensics and Legal Consulting, Inc. of Lakeland, Fla.

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