The Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) program restarted in January of 2021, after not having a program for several years.  The program restarted with only 2 forensic nurses on staff, who were only able to offer very limited on call time, due to having other full-time jobs within the hospital.  Since then, the FNE program has grown from 2 to 12 forensic nurses.  In FY2020, the program saw 12 patients, many of whom needed to be transferred to other facilities to receive care.  In FY2023, the forensic program saw 32 patients, with very few patients requiring transfer.  The growth and development of this valued program are largely due to the efforts of Dara Arnold, Assistant Director of Nursing (Emergency Department).

Dara exemplifies professionalism and patient advocacy and is passionate about the care provided to victims of crime.  Dara has fostered relationships with various community resources to ensure a continuum of care and support after they leave MSMH.  She is a strong resource for our patients, the Forensic Nurse team, as well as our community resources.  She provides patients and staff with compassionate care and support.  Dara is well respected by the ED team for her knowledge and expertise.

She takes great pride in the growth of the Forensic Program and being able to provide services to victims of crime when they are needed.  Dara makes herself available to our providers and associates to be a resource when needed.  In addition to Dara’s strong clinical skills, she has done a phenomenal job of mentoring and providing support to the developing Forensic Nurses. She has instilled a passion for Forensic Nursing in other nurses here at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital.

Dara is an exemplary associate who consistently exemplifies the qualities of a DAISY Nurse.