Edinburg, TX – During November 06 – 10, 2017, DHR Health celebrates Forensic Nurses Week. During this week we recognize nurses who provide specialized care every day to men, women, and children who have been affected by violence and abuse. DHR Health this week would like to increase public awareness about the health impact of violence and the vital role of the forensic nurse.
In February 2017, DHR Health launched its forensic exam center Safe H.A.V.E.N. – Helping All Violent Encounters Now. The forensic exam center provides comprehensive, compassionate and patient-centered care for children and adults that have been abused or sexually assaulted. DHR Health Safe H.A.V.E.N. is the only forensic exam center in Hidalgo County.
International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) President Liz Louden states, “Until we live in a world without violence, forensic nurses will seek to strengthen the role of the health system in addressing violence and continue to provide expert and compassionate care to patients who require these specialized services.”
By providing forensic nursing services, communities arm themselves with a vital resource to attend the short- and long term-health consequences of violence, address violence prevention efforts, and help ensure the administration of justice.
If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse or sexual assault, please call DHR Health Safe H.A.V.E.N. at (956) 249-6452 or call the Rape Crisis Center Hotline at (800) 580-4879.
About the International Association of Forensic Nurses
With more than 3,700 members from 24 countries, the International Association of Forensic Nurses has a mission to provide leadership in forensic nursing practice by developing, promoting, and disseminating information internationally about forensic nursing science. We establish and provide standards of practice and education for forensic nurses. Our members have the knowledge and expertise to decrease the healthcare consequences of violence, improve patient recovery and lower healthcare costs. The Association offers a variety of educational opportunities as well as board certification for sexual assault nurse examiners who care for Adult/Adolescent (SANE-A®) and Pediatric (SANE-P®) patients. For more information, visit www.forensicnurses.org
