Managing Boundaries When Working with Justice Involved Persons: What Correctional Nurses Need to Know

The creation and maintenance of therapeutic boundaries has been described as one of the  most important competencies required by correctional nurses working with justice involved persons.  Correctional nurses are often warned about getting “too close” to their patients, an edict that is rarely coupled with guidance regarding how to become engaged in a meaningful way that safely promotes the achievement of treatment goals for their patients.  However, navigating therapeutic boundaries can be particularly challenging given the patient’s psychopathology and treatment needs, the seductive pull of helping, professional isolation, and the failure of ethical reasoning by professionals.  Strategies to address boundary violations before, during, and after they arise will be presented and contribute to effective risk management, and a safe and supportive working environment for all concerned.