From collecting fingernail scrapings, swabbing for DNA and recording attack wounds, forensic nurses help ensure the integrity of forensic evidence, while providing special care to victims of sexual assault.
In Manitoba, they're busier than ever.
“Right now, we're averaging approximately 40 patients a month which is higher than we're used to seeing,” said Ashley Smith, forensic nurse with Winnipeg’s sexual assault.
Forensic nurses say awareness could be the reason they've seen nearly double the number of patients in the past four months.
“They don't have the same length of wait as they do in emergency and they get that specialized care,” said Smith.
In Manitoba, forensic nurses require 40 hours of special classes as well as six months to a year of on-the-job training.
From identifying an attacker through DNA to toxicology proving a victim was drugged - evidence collected can play an important role in police investigations.
“Everything helps to corroborate the victim and help them out and present the best case,” said Sgt. Krista Dudek, investigator with the Winnipeg Police Service’s sex crimes unit.
Forensic nurses give each patient the option to involve police and can contact officers for them.
Ashley Smith said working out of Manitoba’s only special sexual assault treatment suite makes a difference.
“I think our setting makes it a lot more comfortable for patients to want to contact police,” she said.
The hidden rooms in Health Sciences Centre offer a home-like atmosphere.
Patients can also make a police statement, speak with investigators and meet sexual assault counsellors, all without leaving the private suite.
“It definitely helps, yes, this suite here. Everyone working together for sure helps,” said Det. Sgt. Fred Schlamp, investigator with the Winnipeg Police Service’s sex crimes unit.
Streamlining the process avoids further stressing victims and allows for a thorough approach to investigating the crime.
