CFN Courtroom Testimony and Procedures 3

Question 1

When a forensic nurse discovers a discrepancy between her written report and her testimony mid-trial, the best course of action is to:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the discrepancy, clarify what is accurate, and explain any difference

Answer

Transparency about discrepancies protects the nurse's credibility; the witness should address inconsistencies directly and explain them rather than conceal or minimize them.

Question 2

Under Federal Rule of Evidence 702, expert testimony is admissible when the expert's methodology is:

Accepted Answer

Based on sufficient facts, reliable principles, and reliably applied to the case facts

Answer

FRE 702 requires that expert testimony rest on sufficient facts or data, be the product of reliable methods, and be reliably applied to the facts of the case.

Question 3

A forensic nurse is subpoenaed to testify but believes she cannot ethically reveal certain patient information. She should first:

Accepted Answer

Consult with the hospital's legal counsel before the court date

Answer

Before a court date, the nurse should work with legal counsel to determine whether a motion to quash or a protective order is appropriate to address confidentiality concerns.

Question 4

During direct examination, an attorney asks a forensic nurse a leading question. This is:

Accepted Answer

Generally not allowed on direct examination unless the witness is declared hostile

Answer

Leading questions—those suggesting the desired answer—are generally prohibited on direct examination but permitted during cross-examination.

Question 5

When reviewing medical records on the stand, a forensic nurse should handle the documents by:

Accepted Answer

Referring to specific page numbers and entries for accuracy and transparency

Answer

Citing specific document pages and entries demonstrates precision and allows all parties to verify the accuracy of the witness's references in real time.

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

CFN Courtroom Testimony and Procedures 3