Expressing support for designating the week of November 4 through November 10, 2024, as "Forensic Nursing Week".

Legislation Details

Supports the designation of the week of November 4 through November 10, 2024, as “Forensic Nursing Week.”
Recognizes forensic nurses as registered or advanced practice nurses with specialized training to address health consequences for patients affected by violence.
Highlights the expertise of forensic nurses in conducting comprehensive medical forensic examinations and treating victims of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other forms of trauma.
Notes that forensic nurses often provide initial medical care to victims and coordinate necessary follow-up resources, including law enforcement reporting.
Acknowledges the acute and long-term health consequences faced by victims of violence, including higher rates of depression, substance use, and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Emphasizes the importance of early healthcare intervention following acts of violence for better long-term outcomes and reduced medical costs.
Stresses the need for access to comprehensive medical forensic examinations for victims, as mandated by the Violence Against Women Act.
Points out that only about 25% of U.S. hospitals have Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) on staff, indicating a need for increased access to these professionals.
References updated national protocols from the Department of Justice for sexual assault and intimate partner violence medical forensic examinations.
Affirms the essential role of forensic nurses in providing trauma-informed care and their recognition as a specialty practice area since 1995.
Encourages policies and actions to protect communities from violence and enhance healthcare responses to sexual and physical assault.