Nurse coroners, also known as forensic nurses or death investigators, are not just ordinary nurses. They are highly skilled professionals who are crucial in investigating suspicious, unexpected, or unnatural deaths. Combining their nursing expertise with specialized knowledge in forensic science, they assist in determining the cause and manner of death, a task that requires a unique blend of medical and investigative skills.
What is a Nurse Coroner?
A nurse coroner is not a lone investigator. They are registered nurses with additional training in forensic science and death investigation. Working closely with medical examiners, law enforcement, and other professionals, they investigate deaths that fall under the coroner’s office’s jurisdiction. Nurse coroners are responsible for collecting and documenting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and assisting in autopsies, a role that requires strong teamwork and collaboration.
Coroner vs. Medical Examiner — What’s the Difference?
Coroners are elected or appointed officials responsible for investigating deaths within their jurisdiction. They may or may not have medical training, and in some cases, they rely on the expertise of nurse coroners or forensic pathologists to assist in their investigations.
Medical examiners are licensed physicians who have completed specialized training in forensic pathology. They are appointed to their positions and are responsible for conducting autopsies and determining the cause and manner of death in cases under their jurisdiction.
Where Do Nurse Coroners Work?
Nurse coroners typically work in coroner’s offices, medical examiner’s offices, or forensic laboratories. They may also be employed by hospitals, law enforcement agencies, or government organizations. Some nurse coroners may work as independent consultants, providing their expertise to various agencies on a case-by-case basis.
How Do You Become a Nurse Coroner?
If you’ve determined that forensic nursing is the right career path for you and are ready to embark on the journey to become a nurse coroner, follow the steps outlined below.
Step One: Get Your Nursing Degree
Begin by researching available nursing schools and consider the type of degree you wish to pursue. You have two options: an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). An ADN program typically takes two years to complete and provides a foundation for further education, such as a bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, a BSN program requires four years of study.
Step Two: Get Your Registered Nurse License
Upon graduating from nursing school, your next step is to focus on the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). This standardized exam grants you a registered nursing license upon successful completion. Passing the NCLEX-RN is crucial for becoming a forensic nurse and should be manageable for committed students.
The exam allows a maximum of 5 hours and includes a few optional breaks. You will encounter up to 145 questions covering various topics, such as:
- Safe and Effective Care Management
- Physiological Integrity
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Health Promotion and Maintenance
The cost of the exam is $200.
Step Three: Acquire Some Experience
Most employers seeking forensic nurses prefer candidates with pertinent experience. Your ability to apply your knowledge in practical situations shows that you are prepared for the role. Aim to acquire as much relevant experience as possible in your chosen field to increase your chances of securing high-paying forensic nursing positions.
Step Four: Consider Applying for an Advanced Degree
You are a qualified and licensed registered nurse at this stage, ready to explore forensic nursing job opportunities. While there are several notable certifications available, the most significant ones pertain to sexual assault nurse examiners rather than nurse coroners. Any relevant forensic nursing certifications you can obtain will enhance your knowledge and strengthen your resume.
However, the most impactful step is to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree. Advanced degrees in forensic nursing are available and can elevate your career to new heights. These programs open doors to research, teaching, and psychiatric nursing positions. Although these advanced degrees can improve your job prospects and potentially increase your salary, they do not guarantee employment. Moreover, you can still apply for nurse coroner positions without an advanced nursing degree.
How Many Years Does It Take to Become a Nurse Coroner?
The time it takes to become a nurse coroner can vary depending on your educational path and experience. Typically, it takes two to four years to earn a nursing degree, depending on whether you pursue an ADN or a BSN. After obtaining your registered nurse license, you must gain at least two years of experience working as a nurse. If you choose to pursue an advanced degree, this can add an additional two to six years to your timeline.
What Type of Nurse Works in the Morgue?
Nurse coroners, also known as forensic nurses or death investigators, are the primary nurses working in morgues or medical examiner’s offices. These nurses have specialized training in forensic science and assist in investigating deaths, including collecting evidence, documenting findings, and assisting in autopsies.
Other nurses may also work in morgues or related settings. For example, some hospitals may employ nurses in their pathology departments to assist with autopsies or post-mortem care. These nurses may have experience in surgical or critical care nursing and receive additional on-the-job training in forensic procedures.
Should I Become a Forensic Nurse?
Becoming a forensic nurse, or nurse coroner, can be a highly rewarding career choice for individuals passionate about nursing and forensic science. Forensic nurses play a vital role in the investigation of deaths and help to provide closure and justice for families who have lost loved ones.
However, it is important to consider this field’s unique challenges and demands before pursuing a career as a forensic nurse. Forensic nurses are exposed to death and trauma regularly and may work long or irregular hours, including nights and weekends. They must have strong emotional resilience and maintain objectivity and professionalism in difficult circumstances.
If you are considering a career as a forensic nurse, it may be helpful to speak with current professionals in the field to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of the job. You may also consider volunteering or interning in a coroner’s or medical examiner’s office to gain hands-on experience and determine if this career path suits you.
How Much Do Nurse Coroners Make?
The salary of a nurse coroner, also known as a forensic nurse, can vary based on factors such as education, experience, and geographic location. According to recent data, the average annual salary for a forensic nurse in the United States is approximately $70,000.
However, the pay scale for forensic nurses in America is quite broad, ranging from around $21,000 for entry-level positions to over $98,000 for experienced professionals. Most forensic nurses earn between $69,000 and $75,000 per year.
Glassdoor, a popular job and salary website, reported in December 2021 that the median annual salary for a forensic nurse was $78,640. When factoring in additional compensation, such as overtime and bonuses, the total annual pay for forensic nurses can reach an average of $103,927.
Forensic nurses in the 25th to 75th percentile of the profession can anticipate an annual salary range of $56,000 to $108,000, demonstrating the significant potential for income growth within this nursing specialty.
Ready to Become a Nurse Coroner?
If you are considering a career as a nurse coroner, it is important to consider this field’s unique demands and challenges carefully. However, if you have a strong interest in both nursing and forensics and are prepared to invest the time and effort required to pursue this career path, becoming a nurse coroner can be a highly fulfilling and impactful way to make a difference in your community.
