New UNLV Course Targets Nevada's Forensic Nursing Shortage

Addressing the Shortage of Forensic Nurses in Nevada

A groundbreaking nursing program has recently launched at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) to tackle the critical shortage of forensic nurses across the state. This initiative is particularly significant as it aims to provide specialized training that can help meet the growing demand for these essential healthcare professionals.

According to a healthcare professional, there are currently only 12 actively practicing forensic nurses in Nevada, despite the state needing nearly 130 based on research. The University of Nevada’s School of Nursing officially introduced the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Education Program in July. This 40-hour online curriculum runs through August 14 and focuses on the role and responsibilities of SANE nurses. The course covers evidence collection, proper labeling, photo documentation, and other critical aspects of forensic nursing.

The development of this program has taken approximately five years, beginning when Dr. Kathleen Thimsen was recruited to UNLV in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was tasked with initiating a forensic nursing training program by the dean of the school. Thimsen noted that the program has already attracted 51 participants, all from Southern Nevada. She emphasized the importance of this training, stating that it offers an opportunity for nurses to enhance their skills and improve the quality of care for individuals affected by trauma, violence, and crime.

The need for more forensic nurses became especially evident following the death of Jeri Dermanelian, a 64-year-old sexual assault nurse examiner who worked at University Medical Center. Dermanelian was often referred to as Southern Nevada’s only forensic nurse, although another provider, Nevada HealthRight, also offered similar services. Despite having six trained forensic nurses, the organization's services were not widely utilized. Their office is located near UMC, making them a convenient option for patients seeking forensic exams.

Thimsen highlighted that Nevada needs at least 129 forensic nurses, with 60-70 percent of them being full-time. She explained that the role involves extensive evidence collection, medical forensic interviews, and testimony in court. These responsibilities require a high level of expertise and dedication.

SafeNest, an organization that supports survivors of domestic and sexual violence, continues to advocate for the expansion of forensic nursing services. Lisa Lopez, a board member at SafeNest and a domestic violence survivor, pointed out that strangulation is one of the most dangerous forms of violence and a leading cause of homicide in domestic violence cases. Without forensic nurses to conduct exams, it becomes difficult to secure temporary protective orders for survivors.

According to statistics, the highest percentage of murders investigated by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police in 2025 involved domestic violence. Liz Ortenburger, CEO of SafeNest, emphasized the importance of coordination among various sectors, including law enforcement, the courts, and medical professionals, to reduce homicides. She noted that the new law signed by Governor Joe Lombardo allows direct reimbursement for forensic nurses, bypassing the county system. This change is expected to help connect survivors with forensic nurses more efficiently.

Ortenburger expressed hope that this initiative will transform how forensic exams are conducted in Clark County, moving from a situation where one nurse serves millions of people to a more comprehensive approach that prioritizes the needs of survivors. This shift could lead to better outcomes for both survivors and the legal system.

Registration for the SANE Education Program is now closed. However, the program represents a crucial step forward in addressing the shortage of forensic nurses in Nevada and improving the care and support available to victims of violence.