The Effects of a Structured Training Program on the Identification and Evaluation of Judicial Cases by Nurses

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the effect of a structured education program on the ability of nurses to identify and evaluate forensic cases. The study is an intervention study with a pretest, post-test, and follow-up test design. The population of the study is composed of 130 nurses working in a University Research and Application Hospital in Central Anatolia in Turkey. The sample size was not calculated as the aim was to reach the whole population. The study was completed with 42 nurses who agreed to participate in the study. The data of the study were collected by using the Nurse Information form and Forensic Cases Identification and Evaluation Knowledge form. The pre-test was done one week earlier than the training, the post-test was done just after the training, and follow-up was done one month later after the training. The average age of the nurses was found to be 30.11±4.87, 69% of the participants were married, and 59.5% hold a bachelor's degree. When nurses' Forensic Case Identification and Evaluation Information Form mean scores were compared, the mean score was 4. 57±1.98 in the pre-test, 11.73±4.09 in post-test, and 9.88±3.40 in follow-up done one month later. It was determined that there was a significant increase in nurses' average of the post-test and follow-up scores according to pre-test (p<0.05). It was found that the number of the nurses' correct answers regarding the collection of evidence increased significantly after training and in the follow-up. It has been determined that education has a positive effect on the level of knowledge about the identification and assessment of forensic cases. It is recommended that nurses be given in-service training on the evaluation of forensic cases and evidence identification, collection, and recording. Also, forensic nursing certificate programs can be made more common.