
Medical malpractice lawsuits are common. A patient who wasn't treated well by a doctor resulting in some sort of health trouble can file a medical malpractice lawsuit. When patients are uncertain they easily blame the doctor in case anything goes wrong. Medical malpractice lawsuits against someone in the medical profession are increasing by the day.
In a medical malpractice lawsuit, lawyers of both the doctor and the patient argue their case. They use medical terminology and legal jargon while doing so. Now lawyers are not familiar with medical terms as they don't deal with such lawsuits on a daily basis. This is where paralegal nurses are required. A paralegal nurse works with attorneys and assists them with medical lawsuits. They may also find a suitable opening in miscellaneous law firms, government agencies, as well as hospitals.
Registered nurses also interview residents who are traumatized or are perhaps faced with legal tribulations. They teach these people the way they should defend themselves and create an awareness relating to their rights in this particular field. What they do is come up with a plan which advocates them and they may then deal by responding to legal complaints if anyone is reporting health care related issues. They may also be required to assist their bosses in certain situations.
A nurse paralegal must have enough legal training, skills, and medical expertise to become a unique and valued member of a legal team. To become a paralegal nurse, no specific qualification is required as their job profiles vary. On the job training is also sometimes sufficient to become a paralegal nurse. However, there are various diplomas, degrees, and certification courses in paralegal field. A paralegal nurse needs to be a Registered Nurse before undergoing any sort of paralegal training. Apart from training, which is a one year course involving experience in civil litigation and medical liability, practical skills are also important. After the training, a paralegal nurse can attain certification from American Legal Nurse Consultant Certification Board or any similar organization. They are generally required to be well informed in the medical arena with a sensitive comprehension of medical laws. Having an eye for medical ailments and diagnosis is something that is important to be a paralegal nurse.
A paralegal nurse must not be confused with a legal nurse consultant. However, it is also true that certain job roles of both are similar. Legal nurse consultants work on a contractual basis for a particular task and carry out valuable legal-medical services. Paralegal nurses on the other hand are more trained and can also perform the role of a legal nurse consultant. Paralegal nurses can easily find jobs in law firms, corporate legal departments, hospitals, government organizations, and other legal environments.
The employment opportunities for paralegal nurses are increasing as has been specified by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. The growth rate in their careers has been estimated to be around 22% from 2006 to 2014. With experience and higher degrees, you can expect to bag the best paralegal nurse jobs. The salaries are rewarding too.