Building Bridges: Forensic and Emergency Nurses on the Frontline

In this special IAFN-Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) crossover episode, Kalen and Karen are joined by Ryan Oglesby, Board President of ENA, for a timely, insightful discussion about the essential—and evolving—relationship between forensic nurses and emergency nurses. From their personal stories to current joint organizational advocacy, this episode uncovers how working together improves patient outcomes, fosters holistic care, and creates a safer, more supportive work environment for healthcare professionals. Whether you are an ER nurse, forensic nurse, or just passionate about the future of trauma-informed patient care, this episode is packed with wisdom, clinical pearls, and resources.

Key Episode Learnings:

• Learn how forensic and emergency nursing roles synergize for better patient outcomes, supporting trauma-informed, holistic care in acute settings
• Understand the evolution of evidence collection in emergency departments: Hear why forensic nursing programs are crucial and how they were developed by ER nurses filling care gaps
• Discover myths and truths about forensic nursing careers: Can only ER nurses become forensic nurses?
• Explore strategies for addressing workplace violence and advocating for safer work environments
• Find out how collaboration leads to innovative care models and broader services for survivors of violence

Registration for #IAFN2025 Omaha International Conference on Forensic Nursing Science & Practice is open! Learn more and register here before the pre- and post-workshop seats fill up: forensicnurses.org/2025conference

Episode Resources:

• Use code ENAIAFN25 at checkout to get 15% OFF to join either IAFN or ENA (Offer ends June 30, 2025): forensicnurses.org/ena-iafn
• Emergency Nurses Association (ENA): ena.org

IAFN Resources

• IAFN Online Learning Center (OLC): forensicnurses.org/page/OLCAccess/
• TeleSAFE Toolkit: Access this Step-by-Step Guide to a Trauma-Informed Program at forensicnurses.org/page/TeleSAFE/
• International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN): Learn more at forensicnurses.org
• IAFN Foundation: Support our work to spread forensic nursing at fundforensicnursing.org
• IAFN’s SAFEta Resources: Explore safeta.org
• National Tribal Clearinghouse on Sexual Assault (NTCSA): Supporting tribal communities at supportingourcircle.org

Join the Conversation
Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Send us a voice message on our website at forensicnurses.org/podcast/ Let’s make this podcast a resource tailored to YOU!

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• Website: Forensic Nurses
• Instagram: @iafn_forensicnurses
• IAFN Membership
• Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter

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