Bridging Gaps & Delivering Justice for Patients: CHI Health's TeleForensic Nurse Examiner Program

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, CHI Health is proud to highlight its innovative TeleForensic Nurse Examiner (TeleFNE) program, a groundbreaking initiative that ensures access to specialized, trauma-informed care for survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, human trafficking, elder abuse, and other forms of violence across Nebraska.

Forensic nurses play a crucial role in providing compassionate care to victims, documenting injuries, collecting evidence, and empowering patients with information about their rights and reporting options. While CHI Health boasts a team of nearly 30 FNE-trained nurses statewide, the TeleFNE program ensures patients have access to care at each facility. CHI Health launched its virtual program in November 2020, the first in the state to implement an approach, giving  all its hospitals and clinics 24/7 access to expert forensic nursing care. This eliminates the need for patients to travel long distances during a vulnerable time.

The impact of the TeleFNE program extends beyond immediate care. Recently, the team at CHI Health St. Elizabeth utilized tele-FNE to guide a patient through the process, meticulously assisting with evidence collection, documentation, and reporting. This information was then successfully used in a real-world court case – a first for Nebraska – setting a significant precedent for the use of telehealth in forensic nursing and demonstrating the program's commitment to justice for survivors.

"It's amazing to see how much the program has grown, and while our primary goal is always patient care, it was a great feeling to see the work we do actually help someone get justice in the legal system. It speaks volumes about the empowerment and support we provide," said Jodi Hayes, CHI Health Market Manager of the FNE Program. 

CHI Health is committed to expanding its TeleFNE program and is actively seeking more nurses to join this vital work. The CHI Health Foundation and employee giving campaigns often cover the cost of training, making it easier for staff to get involved.