Prison Nurse: Working in Correctional Healthcare

People in prison often have higher rates of mental illness, addiction, infections and long-term conditions than the general population. Prison nurses provide much of their care, in a setting most nurses never see.

Imagine starting your shift with a medication round across several wings, then assessing a man in withdrawal, dressing a wound, screening a new arrival for TB and supporting someone at risk of self-harm. Every patient is someone society has often overlooked, and you’re the person who treats them with dignity.

What prison nurses do

• Health screening when people arrive in custody
• Medication administration and long-term condition reviews
• Emergency response within the prison
• Substance misuse and withdrawal care
• Mental health support and suicide prevention
• Infection control, vaccination and blood-borne virus testing
• Planning care for release

Skills that matter

Clear boundaries, assertive but respectful communication, a non-judgemental approach, emergency skills, mental health and addiction knowledge, and the ability to work independently. Understanding the balance between security rules and patient care is essential.

But is it safe?

Prisons have strict security procedures, and nurses work closely with officers. Training covers personal safety, de-escalation and what to do in incidents. Most prison nurses say they feel safer than they expected, though vigilance is always needed. Emotional safety matters too; clinical supervision helps with the pressures of the role.

How to get in

Registered nurses with general, mental health or emergency experience can apply. Some services welcome newly qualified nurses with a strong preceptorship. You’ll need enhanced background checks. Specialist certification exists in some countries, such as correctional health certification in the US.

Sources: World Health Organization (Prisons and health), International Council of Nurses, Royal College of Nursing (Nursing in justice and forensic healthcare), National Commission on Correctional Health Care.