Bill.Mathews@asuvax.asu.edu (Bill Mathews) (05/29/89)
PM> Doug, I will be doing some clinical work with inmates in a
PM> regional prison setting. I am a nurse and will be working in
PM> their infirmary. Several inmates are HIV+ at this point. Would
PM> like to know more about addressing HIV with this population. I
PM> chose to work with this population because of the challenge. Can
PM> you refer me to literature specifically addressing this population
PM> or offer a few pointers?
I've done work among them for eight years... Matter of fact my BBS is located
on the grounds at Florida State Prison. We have Death Row, maximum and some
medium security patients. The diagnosis of AIDS is the same as a death warrant,
signed, sealed and delivered. People on Death Row can appeal their
problem and with luck they are free. Those with AIDS have no "appeal process"
and for the most part no one to turn to nor an active support group to turn to.
Most of their family and friends have disowned them. The ultimate rejection in
our Society is to "warehouse" someone permanently. Using the coping skills that
they have, they try.. The prison setting is a rich, fertile area for a
clinician to give of themselves and the many skills that they have learned.
Unfortunately, some patients having no other place to turn to direct their
anger and denial at the very ones trying to help them. Above all, never judge a
patient (inmate) for why he/she is there, it really doesn't matter. All that
matters, is what their health problem is... If you
spend time worrying over this person is a "baby-raper" or a "snitch" your
clinical judgement can become biased. Once the patients realize that you are
accepting them as individuals (and they will test you) maybe a little rapport
can begin. There all very few long term goals among inmates. They try and live
each day as it occurs. Work towards enhancing the quality of the patient's day
as each one unfolds. Never promise to deliver anything, unless
you are absolutely sure you can deliver. "I'll check on it for you," works
when you're not sure. But then do it. I wish you good luck in your endeavor!
Bill
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