Incarcerated individuals frequently enter correctional facilities in various stages of substance withdrawal. Without timely recognition and intervention, withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, stimulants, or benzodiazepines can result in serious complications, medical emergencies, or even death. Correctional nurses are often the first to assess and monitor these patients, making their role critical in ensuring safe withdrawal management and continuity of care.

In this class, we will explore the physiology and clinical presentation of common withdrawal syndromes, learn nursing interventions and monitoring strategies tailored to the correctional environment, and strengthen your ability to educate patients about what to expect during withdrawal. Case studies and real-world correctional scenarios bring the material to life, preparing you to manage withdrawal safely while maintaining therapeutic boundaries and professional integrity.