Forensic Specialist

The Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio State University University Hospital Rhodes Hall is seeking a Forensic Specialist to deliver trauma-informed, specialized nursing care to patients affected by violence and trauma. You will integrate nursing and forensic principles, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and support evidence integrity across OSUWMC facilities.

Responsibilities include forensic assessment, treatment, documentation, advocacy, care coordination, education, and courtroom support in compliance with Ohio

Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Nursing required; BSN preferred; or board-certified NP or PA.
• Current Ohio licensure.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Current BLS certification prior to providing direct patient care.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert forensic nursing assessment, treatment, and documentation.
• Collect evidence, advocate for patients, and coordinate care.
• Provide education and courtroom support for patients affected by violence and trauma.

Skills

Forensic nursing

Trauma-informed care

Clinical assessment

Education

Associate Degree in Nursing

BSN preferred

Nurse Practitioner certification

Physician Assistant certification

Job description

Job Title: Forensic Specialist Department: University Hospital | Critical Care Administration

Scope of Position

The Forensic Specialist is a highly specialized professional who provides comprehensive, trauma-informed nursing care to patients across the lifespan affected by violence, abuse, exploitation, trauma, crime, and intentional or unintentional injury. The Forensic Specialist integrates nursing science, forensic science, criminal justice, public health, and trauma-informed care principles to address the medical, emotional, psychosocial, and legal needs of patients. The Forensic Specialist collaborates with physicians, advanced practice providers, social workers, advocacy agencies, law enforcement, legal professionals, and community partners to ensure safe, patient-centered care, maintain evidence integrity, and support continuity of care and patient safety. The position may provide forensic services across multiple OSUWMC and affiliated facilities and participates in community outreach and education initiatives.

Position Summary

Provides expert forensic nursing assessment, treatment, evidence collection, documentation, advocacy, care coordination, education, and courtroom support for patients affected by violence and trauma. Practices in accordance with Ohio law, professional nursing standards, forensic nursing standards, and OSUWMC policies and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate Degree in Nursing required; Bachelor of Science in Nursing preferred; or board-certified Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant.

• Current applicable Ohio licensure.
• Valid driver's license.
• Reliable transportation.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification prior to providing direct patient care.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in emergency, critical care, women’s health, behavioral health, or forensic nursing.
• Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certification.
• Advanced or General Forensic Nursing Certification.
• Experience providing trauma-informed care to vulnerable populations.
• Minimum of two (2) years of clinical experience.

Location: University Hospital - Rhodes Hall (0354)

Position Type: Regular

Scheduled Hours: 30

Shift: Varying Shifts

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.