- Nursing
- Nursing specialties
- Domestic violence nurse
Domestic violence nurse
A domestic violence nurse works with patients who are victims of physical or emotional abuse.
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Required education
ADN or BSN
Varied
Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.
Patient-facing
Work hands-on, directly with patients.
Independent
Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.
What is the role of a domestic violence nurse?
You’ll use forensic techniques to gather and record evidence and keep detailed records of patients’ injuries and experiences.
What you’ll do as a domestic violence nurse
Documentation
You’ll collect and record information about the patient’s injuries, their history and their experiences.
Evidence
You’ll work with law enforcement and appear in court on behalf of patients.
Support
You’ll maintain in-depth knowledge about therapy groups and other resources for patients.
Treatment
You’ll examine, evaluate and provide patients with physical and mental support.
Where you’ll work as a domestic violence nurse
Domestic violence nurses work in a variety of settings, including:
- Community clinics
- Hospitals
- Public health offices
How to become a domestic violence nurse
Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Pass the NCLEX-RN.
The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.
Work as a Domestic Violence Registered Nurse, taking continuing education courses in Forensic Nursing.
After three years you can get your Certification in Forensic Nursing. You can also become certified as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner.
Get your Advanced Forensic Nursing Certification once you have 2,000 hours of experience in Forensic Nursing with 30 hours of continuing education classes.
You’re ready to work as a domestic violence nurse.
Domestic violence nurse career resources
Become a member of a domestic violence nurse organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
The Nursing Network on Violence Against Women International
The Nursing Network on Violence Against Women International
Related nursing specialties
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Forensic nurse
A forensic nurse cares for patients who have been the victims of sexual abuse, violence and assault. -
Emergency nurse
An emergency nurse takes care of patients in a wide range of situations, from fevers, to minor injuries and major trauma.
