Introduction
Professionalism is more than just showing up on time and following the rules — it is the visible expression of nursing’s values, ethics, and standards. In the correctional environment, professionalism takes on added significance. Correctional nurses practice at the intersection of health care and criminal justice, in settings where safety, security, and human dignity collide. How nurses carry themselves, communicate, and uphold standards of care is central to both patient outcomes and the reputation of the profession.
Objectives
At the end of this class, the student should be able to
- Define professionalism in nursing and describe its application in the correctional setting.
- Analyze the role of professional identity in correctional nursing, including challenges and strategies for development.
- Demonstrate understanding of ethical integrity and moral courage as essential components of professionalism behind the wall.
- Identify professional responsibilities related to lifelong learning, mentorship, and evidence-based practice.
- Apply strategies for sustaining professionalism through boundaries, self-care, and professional connection.