Correctional nursing

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Correctional nursing is a specialized field of nursing that involves providing healthcare to individuals who are incarcerated in correctional facilities such as prisons, jails, and detention centers. This unique area of nursing practice requires a specific set of skills and knowledge to effectively care for the physical and mental health needs of the incarcerated population.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of correctional nursing can be traced back to the 19th century when Florence Nightingale, a pioneer in modern nursing, advocated for improved healthcare in prisons. Over the years, the field has evolved and expanded, with correctional nurses now playing a crucial role in the healthcare system.

Role and Responsibilities[edit | edit source]

Correctional nurses are responsible for providing a wide range of healthcare services to inmates. These include conducting health assessments, administering medications, providing emergency care, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals. They also play a key role in promoting health and preventing disease within the correctional setting.

Challenges[edit | edit source]

Correctional nursing presents several unique challenges. These include dealing with a diverse patient population with complex health needs, working in a secure environment, and addressing ethical issues related to providing care to incarcerated individuals.

Education and Training[edit | edit source]

To become a correctional nurse, one must first become a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). Additional training and experience in correctional healthcare is also beneficial. Some nurses may choose to become certified in correctional healthcare to demonstrate their expertise in the field.

Future Directions[edit | edit source]

The future of correctional nursing is likely to be influenced by several factors, including changes in the incarcerated population, advances in healthcare technology, and evolving healthcare policies.



WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD