These are profoundly distressing times. From the humanitarian crises in Sudan, to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, to the loss of lives during protests in Iran and the escalating impact of climate disasters, our hearts are heavy.

For many of us, the news is a constant source of anxiety; for others, the only way to cope is to disconnect. But when a fellow nurse is lost, or when we see ourselves in the victims we serve—as many did with Alex Pretti—the pain becomes personal. This is where vicarious trauma takes root, and as forensic nurses, we are uniquely vulnerable to the soul-crushing weight of these events.

The Forensic Nursing Dilemma: Duty vs. Emotion

As individuals, we feel the urge to speak out, to protest, and to demand justice. However, as forensic nurses, we carry a specific professional obligation that is often difficult to navigate. The Academy of Forensic Nursing (AFN) stands firmly against violence and abuse, yet our role requires us to remain the objective "calm within the storm."

The Mandate of Neutrality: Our international codes of ethics demand that we provide compassionate, bias-free healthcare to everyone, including those who may be perceived as aggressors, shooters, or opposing military members.

The Impact on Practice: In the digital age, our private actions can impact our professional credibility. Posting harsh commentary or participating in polarizing initiatives can later be used to question our objectivity in court or our ability to provide unbiased care.

Moral Distress: Caring for a perpetrator while their victim is in the next room creates significant moral distress. It is a burden few other professions understand.

Finding a Path Forward

How do we balance our passion for justice with our requirement to remain apolitical? One of our international members recently shared her experience working the front lines of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite losing her own friends and family, she continued to provide equal, comprehensive care to patients from both sides. Her story is a testament to the incredible strength of the forensic nursing spirit.

If you find yourself struggling to bridge this gap, consider these evidence-based approaches to resilience:

• Apolitical Advocacy: Use your expertise to influence decision-makers through an evidence-based, neutral lens. Focus on the data of trauma and the science of prevention, and support efforts to objectively determine causes of violence in order to prevent further violence.

• Purposeful Volunteering: Helping others in affected areas can enhance your own resilience. Your skills are a powerful tool for healing.

• Ethical Recusal: Remember that the ICN Code of Ethics allows you to remove yourself from care that conflicts with your moral code, provided you ensure a seamless transfer of care to another qualified provider.

A Call to Self-Care

As we move further into 2026, the potential for continued divisiveness remains high. We are committed to supporting those affected by trauma, but you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Acknowledge your feelings. Be honest about what is impacting you. Stay connected to family, friends, and your nursing peers who truly "get it." Balance your drive to help with the necessity of rest.

We are in this together. By maintaining our professional integrity and supporting one another’s mental health, we ensure that forensic nursing remains a steadfast pillar of justice and healing.

Until next time,

Cathy (CJ) Carter-Snell

AFN President

PhD, RN, SANE-A, DF-AFN