NCJ Number
138683
Date Published
1992
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This review of the appropriate provision of health care to juveniles in correctional facilities considers the responses of juveniles to health care, the necessity to maintain confidentiality of medical records and to assure that juveniles have daily access to medical care and physician services available on a regular basis, and the diagnosis and appropriate treatment of a variety of illnesses.
Abstract
Careworkers provide a critical link between juveniles and access to medical services. A juvenile who needs medical attention is more likely to ask for it and to follow instructions from medical personnel when a careworker shows concern and expresses compassion. These guidelines for the provision of medical care address the dispensing of medication; the delivery of infirmary care as well as medical services in locked or disciplinary units; the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the rare event of a juvenile cardiac arrest; and diagnosis and treatment in the event of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and AIDS, epilepsy, diabetes, tuberculosis, common infections, sexually transmitted diseases, sports injuries, and asthma and other chronic diseases. A careworker who is sympathetic in approach usually can determine the reasons behind juvenile malingering. Chronic complaining needs to be taken seriously as it may be a symptom of depression or an impending suicide attempt. Careworker referral to medical staff and documentation of a juvenile's symptoms and behavior assist medical staff in their diagnosis and treatment of a juvenile.