Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System
Nurse Kelli Clune is the coordinator for the Spartanburg Medical Center (SMC) Forensic Nursing program.
“I was shocked, amazed and humbled,” Clune said. “I don’t see what I do as extraordinary, I just saw a need and started doing it.”
Clune is the coordinator for the Spartanburg Medical Center (SMC) Forensic Nursing program. She was recognized by the 7th Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office for her care of crime victims during difficult times and her ability to effectively testify during criminal court proceedings.
Forensic nurses are trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs). They combine the education of a registered nurse with the forensic aspects of a scientific investigation of the trauma inflicted during acts of violence. They deliver trauma-informed care to minimize the long-term negative impact experienced by victims of violence and ensure that follow-up care is provided to begin the healing process.
“Her leadership has helped us develop a sexual assault team in pediatric and adult nurse examining,” said Glenn Gann, Director of Nursing for Emergency Services at SMC. “In difficult situations, these patients receive specialized care. The impact of the training, care and education that has been provided is tremendous.”
Clune has worked for eight years with adult abuse victims and six years with children. The cases have increased since starting the program.
“The biggest thing is that it has tremendously increased the amount of examinations we do for pediatrics in particular. Kelli has increased awareness,” Gann said.
After abuse has been reported, the child has often been questioned by multiple adults. The children are often very frightened by the time they get to forensic nurses.
Along with her medical role, Clune also goes to court, provides education and training, and is part of a statewide team that writes to state legislature as part of her work.