Forensic Nurses Week

ANNAPOLIS, Md., Nov. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- "You are safe" are often the first words heard by survivors of violent acts when Forensic Nurses are present to provide care in hospitals, clinics, jails and community settings around the world. Forensic Nurses are nurses with advanced education and training, giving them the skills to deal with the immediate health care consequences of violence. On November 7-11, the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) will celebrate "Forensic Nurses Week" to recognize these nurses who provide exceptional care to victims and perpetrators of abuse and violence.

The World Health Organization reports more than 1.6 million people worldwide lose their lives to violence each year and many, many more are injured and suffer from a range of physical, sexual, reproductive and mental health problems. "WHO reminds us that violence places a huge burden on national economies, costing countries billions each year in health care, law enforcement and lost productivity," said Eileen Allen, president of IAFN. "The 3000 members of IAFN work alongside fellow nurses and other professionals in more than 25 countries worldwide to address all aspects of violence including prevention, intervention and reduction of further harm."

During Forensic Nurses Week, IAFN will recognize the nurses who focus every day to make a difference in the lives of men, women, and children who have experienced the physical and emotional trauma of violence. IAFN members have written letters to elected officials, put up posters in their facilities, and will wear lilac—the official color of Forensic Nursing.

To support this effort, the IAFN has created a documentary about the Forensic Nursing profession, highlighting nurses from around the continent for their exceptional care and compassion. Watch it now (3 parts) on http://www.youtube.com/forensicnurses.

More About Forensic Nursing: Forensic Nursing is a fast growing nursing subspecialty. Forensic Nurses are professionals who provide nursing care to patients as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, Death Investigators, Legal Nurse Consultants and in many other roles where both victims and perpetrators of violence require the specialized care of a nurse.

More About IAFN: The IAFN's mission is to provide leadership in Forensic Nursing practice by developing, promoting, and disseminating information internationally about forensic nursing science. IAFN also offers certification for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners in both Adult/Adolescent (SANE-A) and Pediatric (SANE-P) patient care.

Visit our Press Center to learn more at www.ForensicNurse.org.

SOURCE International Association of Forensic Nurses