Case Study: Caring For An Inmate

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Caring For an Inmate Dallas county jail is a 6,500 bed facility located near downtown Dallas, Texas. This county jail houses inmates for crimes such as criminal trespassing to capitol murder. Within this population you’ll find that most of the individuals are in need of some kind of medical and mental health attention. This care ranges from chronic care diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and seizures, to more complex diseases like sickle cell. You also encounter inmates that have acute medical concerns as well such as altercations between inmates, slips and falls, and self-harm. Although, the inmates are jailed for crimes, there is still a medical need and requirement that has to be met regarding this population. Although a daunting one, The medical team is dedicated to providing quality health care for these patients. Inmates who test positive for pregnancy are referred to an obstetrician staffed at the jail. These females are followed throughout their stay at Dallas county jail. They are given prenatal vitamins and seen at the appropriate intervals guided by ACOG guidelines. Those pregnant inmates that are high risk are referred to Parkland Hospital’s Ob complications department and are followed for high risk pregnancy. Third trimester inmates are watched closely and educated on stages of labor. Although, it is not ideal for babies to be born at Dallas county jail, there are times when babies will be delivered at the jail. For these instances preparation is made, a birthing kit and qualified nursing staff are available to ensure a safe From chronic health problems, emergencies, to pregnant inmates, Dallas County Jail is equipped to care for any health condition, a lot of times providing better health care than what the inmates would receive outside of jail. The process is organized and leaves little room for error. This population could easily be overlooked, but by implementing an effective process, the inmates at Dallas County jail are able to receive quality medical care while there and be equipped with resources and education to continue their care when

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