Dear Editor,
I am writing to share my concerns following a recent shadowing experience at a Northern Kentucky jail as a nursing student. I was truly impressed by the quality of nursing care provided, which exceeded my expectations in terms of attentiveness and professionalism. However, I was deeply troubled by other substandard conditions I observed, particularly regarding the food served to inmates and the lack of adequate recreation space.
The meals provided to the inmates were concerning. Many of the food items on the trays were indistinguishable, appearing to be a mixture of genetically modified ingredients and shelf-stable meat products. Several inmates remarked that the food was not only unappetizing but also left them hungry after meals. Adequate nutrition is fundamental to maintaining physical and mental health. The meals I witnessed fell short of what is necessary to sustain basic wellness, let alone to help rehabilitate individuals.
Additionally, the recreation area was terribly inadequate. Rather than an outdoor space where inmates could experience fresh air and physical activity, the designated “recreation” area was a small indoor space, enclosed by a gated ceiling that allowed in some fresh air and sunlight but with no actual access to the outdoors. There was no exercise equipment, no seating, and no opportunity for meaningful physical movement outside of walking. These conditions can severely impact both the physical and mental health of those incarcerated, further compounding the challenges they face.
As a future Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), it is not only my responsibility to advocate for my patients but also to improve their health outcomes. By addressing these issues, such as the lack of nutritious food and insufficient recreation space, we can potentially reduce the number of sick calls within the jail, just as improved health outcomes in hospitals help reduce readmissions. These interventions, in turn, reduce costs for taxpayers and patients alike. Ensuring humane conditions is essential for both rehabilitation and the overall well-being of individuals in correctional facilities.
I urge local authorities to address these issues and take steps to ensure the health and dignity of all individuals under their care.
Thank you for the opportunity to raise this important issue with the community.
Ricolette Patterson
Master of Nursing Student at Xavier University
Newport