Communication is a major component of correctional nursing practice. Thoughtful, intentional communication strengthens the therapeutic relationship and supports safe, effective patient care.

At the same time, communication is complex. Even well-intentioned responses can sometimes lead to misunderstanding or mistrust if they are not aligned with the patient’s needs in the moment.

Building more effective interactions does not require perfection. It involves becoming more aware of how our words, tone, and approach influence the patient experience. The following examples highlight opportunities to strengthen communication and support more productive, therapeutic exchanges.

FALSE REASSURANCE

The nurse is taking blood for an HIV test from a fearful pregnant inmate. Trying to be kind and offer hope, the nurse says, “Don’t worry, everything will be all right.” Although an attempt to provide comfort, false reassurances are not based on fact or reality, and they can do more harm than good. A better response might be to explain to the patient when the results will be received, what will happen next, and answer any questions the patient may have.

INCONGRUENCE

A nurse can send conflicting messages when the verbal and nonverbal communication is incongruent. The patient does not know which message to accept. For example, during sick call the nurse may tell the patient to take his time in describing his symptoms, but continually checks her watch during his explanation. 

ARGUING

“How can you say you are in pain when you were able to shoot hoops well enough in the yard this afternoon?” By challenging the claims of a patient or arguing against them, nurses invalidate the patient’s perceptions, which can lead to anger and escalated behavior. It also implies that the nurse doesn’t believe the patient. Rather than imply that the patient is misinformed, lying or uneducated, a better way is to state the reality without arguing. A more appropriate response in this situation might be,”You are feeling significant pain, and you were able to play basketball this afternoon. Tell me where the pain is and describe it for me.”

PASSIVE OR AGGRESSIVE RESPONSES

Nurses can also fall into passive or aggressive communication patterns. Passive communication avoids conflict or sidesteps issues. “The diet here is bad for your hypertension but there is nothing you can do about it.” An aggressive response is likely to provoke anger, frustration or resentment. “It’s your fault that your blood sugar is so high. You shouldn’t be buying those honey buns at the commissary.” Neither response is therapeutic or helpful.

PERSONAL OPINION

Giving personal opinions in the nurse-patient relationship can serve to take away a patient’s decision-making power. Always remember that the problem and the solution belong to the patient and not the nurse. When a patient must make a decision, refrain from using language like “If I were you, I’d ….”. Instead, engage the patient in an objective discussion of the options so that he/she/they can make the best choice for themselves.

Effective communication is not about saying the perfect thing every time. It is about being present, intentional, and aware of how our words and actions influence the patient experience.

In correctional nursing, where time is limited and interactions are often brief, even small shifts in communication can have a meaningful impact. Acknowledging concerns, remaining neutral, and engaging patients in their care can strengthen trust and support better outcomes.

As you reflect on your own practice, consider where small adjustments might make a difference. These everyday interactions, though brief, are powerful opportunities to support both patient care and professional practice behind the wall.

Be sure to read our companion post, Correctional Nurse Practice Update:  Communication Behind the Wall: Common Pitfalls in Everyday Interactions.

Have you heard some communication errors at your facility? Share your correctional nursing communication stories in the comments section of this post.