Explore the role of the forensic nurse in both the health care and criminal justice systems with this text written by experts in the field with contributions from well-known specialists. Inside you'll find an overview of the forensic nursing field as well as crucial coverage on specific issues of evidence collection, prison health care, human trafficking, sexual abuse, and domestic violence. Step-by-step, you will build a solid foundation in forensic nursing practice by developing competencies in deductive analysis, critical thinking, evaluation, application, and communication. It uses Constantino's Complex Synergistic System (CSS) as a conceptual framework to emphasize analysis and critical thinking. It provides the comprehensive information needed to develop the following core competencies: interpreting pertinent information through deductive analysis; deciphering between opinion and fact using critical thinking; evaluating forensic cases by selecting and interpreting data based on evidence; analyzing forensic nursing cases and selecting evidence-based interventions; applying legal theories and the rules of evidence collection; and, communicating effectively among legal professionals, lay persons, and as an expert witness. It begins each chapter with competencies and key terms. It summarizes recent research studies pertaining to a chapter or concept with evidence-based practice guides. It integrates nursing implications throughout each.