NCJ Number
156283
Journal
Journal of Correctional Health Care Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1995) Pages: 61-65
Date Published
1995
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This position statement on the administrative management of HIV in corrections addresses HIV testing for the incarcerated, special housing, special precautions, education/counseling, prevention, confidentiality, special correctional programs, the HIV-positive correctional health care worker, and HIV infection and tuberculosis.
Abstract
Regarding HIV testing for the incarcerated, it is viewed in the position statement as a valid diagnostic tool; it encourages women inmates to be tested for HIV if they are pregnant. The statement opposes segregated housing for HIV-positive inmates who have no symptoms of the disease; those with full-blown AIDS may require medical isolation for their well-being as determined by the treating physician. Regarding special precautions, the statement supports and recommends strict compliance with the Centers for Disease Control statement on Universal Precautions in all settings within corrections. HIV/AIDS education should be provided to all staff and inmates; it should include information on transmission, prevention, treatment, and disease progression. Inmates should be supplied with whatever appropriate protective devices can reduce the risk of contagion. This position statement was adopted by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care's Board of Directors on November 8, 1987, and was last amended on September 25, 1994.