Erin Pollitt, a forensic nurse examiner at Mercy Medical Center, has been in the profession for 3.5 years.
What does your job entail?
I care for patients who present to the hospital with a complaint of sexual or interpersonal violence. I conduct a medical forensic head-to-toe assessment of the patient, provide evidence collection and photo documentation, and arrange for advocacy and discharge planning. I also am involved as an expert witness when these cases move forward to trial.
What kind of schooling or training did you go through?
I have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in health care administration. I completed a Maryland Board of Nursing-approved training, preceptorship and orientation to become a licensed FNE.
What inspired you to this career?
I have always wanted to change the world. As a nurse in the emergency department, I saw victims of violence present to our ER on a regular basis. I wanted to be able to make a difference in the lives of those patients. My aunt was also an inspiration to me; for as long as I can remember, she has been an advocate and a leader in victim services.
What do you like best about your job?
This is the most emotionally rewarding job I have ever had. I am happy to be able to assist, empower, and provide comfort to my patients during their time of crisis. I also love the fact that I am able to see the outcomes of my work on a larger scale, when I am called to testify in court related to the exams that I have performed.
What are the challenges?
As emotionally rewarding as this job is, it is also taxing. There is never a “happy” case. The terrible side of humanity that many people are able to ignore is brought to my attention on a daily basis. I have to make a conscious effort to not let it eat away at me, to remain positive and upbeat, knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of my patients.