A 63-year-old man is screened during booking. The intake nurse notes a blood pressure of 180/98. The man reports he is prescribed Lisinopril 40mg daily, though he hasn’t taken it that day. After verifying the prescription with his community pharmacy, the nurse obtains a continuation order and administers a dose from stock. He begins daily administration during pill line. Several…
Read More

If you have heard me present, you know that I believe Intake Screening is one of the most important nursing interventions we do as Correctional Nurses.  Few clinical encounters are as high-risk, or as important, as the initial intake assessment (“Receiving Screening”). The first 24 hours of incarceration is a critical window where medical, psychiatric, and substance-related crises often emerge. As correctional…
Read More

In correctional healthcare, communication isn’t just important—it’s essential. As correctional nurses, we work in a complex, highly structured environment where we are often the first—and sometimes only—healthcare professional with whom patients interact. Our ability to communicate clearly, effectively, and compassionately has a direct impact on patient outcomes, safety, and the therapeutic relationship we build with those in our care. Why…
Read More