Bridging the Gap: Forensic Nursing and Education in Rural Communities with Carrie Bailey
March 11, 2026
In this episode of Voices from the Nursing Frontline, host Dr. Lisa Beasley sits down with Dr. Carrie Bailey, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee College of Nursing and an experienced Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE).
Dr. Bailey shares insights from more than two decades in nursing education and clinical practice, discussing how simulation, trauma-informed care, and real-world clinical experiences prepare students for today’s healthcare environment. She also highlights her work expanding SANE services across rural Tennessee and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure survivors of sexual assault have access to compassionate, specialized care.
The conversation explores nursing education, rural healthcare challenges, mentorship, and the critical role nurses play in bridging the gap between classroom learning and patient care.
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Carrie Bailey and her background
03:14 The moment that inspired her to focus on forensic nursing
05:02 Changes in clinical judgment education over 25 years
07:17 Differences between accelerated and traditional nursing students
13:11 The importance of simulation in nursing education
16:21 Diagnosing student struggles in simulation environments
20:24 Expanding SANE services in rural Tennessee
23:46 Distinct roles of SANE nurses versus standard ED care
28:50 Creating inclusive trauma-informed care for diverse populations
31:08 Overcoming barriers to SANE service expansion
32:28 Recognition and impact of the Tennessee State Forensic Nurse Award
34:20 Outcomes that matter most in grant-supported projects
35:44 Influence of educational psychology on nursing training
37:09 High-impact educational interventions for real-world readiness
39:24 Leadership philosophy in academic nursing
41:48 Supporting nurses through professional organizations
43:36 Distinguishing good teaching from transformational teaching
44:32 Supporting community efforts to expand SANE services
46:26 Final thoughts and advice for crisis workers