Professionalism is the foundation of safe, ethical, and effective nursing practice. In correctional healthcare, it takes on an even greater significance. Behind the wall, nurses face unique challenges: balancing custody and care, working within rigid security protocols, and caring for patients who may mistrust healthcare providers due to past experiences. In this environment, professionalism is not optional, it is essential….
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Last week we explored the high prevalence and underdiagnosis of ADHD among incarcerated individuals. As correctional nurses, we frequently interact with patients whose behaviors—impulsivity, restlessness, difficulty with authority—are often misunderstood. When these behaviors stem from untreated ADHD, they can contribute to negative outcomes like infractions, segregation, and disengagement from care. In this post, we’ll turn to treatment options and practical management strategies that nurses…
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At intake, you may encounter a patient who seems impatient, fidgety, or easily distracted. They may interrupt, lose track of questions, or appear agitated without an obvious trigger. These behaviors are often attributed to anxiety, substance use, or defiance, but they could also be symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), an often underrecognized and undertreated condition in incarcerated populations. Understanding ADHD…
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