Reconceptualizing Forensic Nursing in South Africa: A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis

Background South Africa has among the world’s highest rates of sexual violence. Evidence shows that nurse-led forensic care improves health and legal outcomes, yet formal forensic nursing education remains undeveloped. Aim To examine facilitators and barriers to developing and sustaining forensic nursing curricula in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Methods Data from eight key informant interviews were analyzed using a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) framework. Findings Strengths included committed clinical champions and institutional memory from prior initiatives. Weaknesses included shortages of trained educators, limited clinical training sites, and inadequate psychosocial support. Opportunities included existing sexual offences infrastructure, government support for decentralization, and recognition of nurses’ roles in post-assault care. Threats included unclear regulatory guidance, professional hierarchies, and lack of formal posts. Conclusions Sustainable forensic nursing practice is feasible and urgently needed. Implementation should include regulatory engagement, institutional investment, and psychosocial supports to strengthen survivor-centered care.