Understanding the nurse's role as a professional witness

Nurses working in any setting may be required to assist the courts or coroners by preparing statements or giving evidence in court. Nurses can act as 'professional witnesses' who provide evidence of something they have seen, heard or been involved with as part of their professional duties. This article outlines how nurses should respond to requests for written statements and suggests a format for providing such statements. It also explains the typical approach to providing oral evidence in court and how nurses should prepare and present themselves in the witness box.