CHALLENGES FACED BY NURSES IN THE EXECUTION OF FORENSIC PRACTICES

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the main challenges faced by nurses in the execution of forensic practices. Method: A qualitative study conducted with nurses specialized in forensic nursing in Brazil. Data collection took place through online semi‑structured interviews between April and May 2023, involving 22 specialists in the field. The interviews were subjected to content analysis supported by the Qualitative Data Analysis Mine software. Results: Four thematic categories emerged from the analysis of the interviews: Lack of knowledge about the field among the population, professionals, and management; Professional qualification; Lack of resources and adequate infrastructure for the execution of practices; and Lack of practical training settings. Conclusion: Forensic nursing in Brazil is still in a consolidation process, marked by weaknesses in training, professional integration, and institutional recognition. The insufficient articulation between education, service, and management-combined with resource shortages and limited practical training environments-restricts the effectiveness of this specialty in caring for individuals experiencing violence. Furthermore, the heterogeneity of educational backgrounds compromises professional qualification and care safety. In this context, investing in the regulation of training, expanding practice settings, and institutionalizing forensic nursing within health services becomes essential. Such strategies are fundamental to strengthening the role of the forensic nurse and improving the health system’s responses to contemporary social demands.