I'd like nurses to know more about my challenging and rewarding field, correctional nursing. I'm employed by the county's sheriff department and am the only nurse in my facility.
In correctional nursing, I use every nursing skill I've ever learned. Many of my patients are dealing with mental illness or drug abuse issues, or have untreated medical problems-or any combination of these. Several times I've recognized an undiagnosed health problem and facilitated treatment for that patient.
I'd encourage other nurses to go into this field, and I'd love to share information with other nurses with similar jobs.
CAROL WALLACE, RN
Weedsport, N.Y.