What should staff do if they discover an inmate has a communicable disease during intake?

The appropriate action for staff upon discovering that an inmate has a communicable disease during intake is to follow healthcare protocols for isolation and treatment. This procedure is crucial for several reasons.

First, adhering to established healthcare protocols ensures the safety and health of all inmates and staff within the facility. Communicable diseases can easily spread, especially in the confined environment of a correctional institution. By isolating the inmate and initiating treatment procedures, staff help prevent an outbreak and protect others.

Second, following protocol typically involves assessing the extent of the disease, managing the inmate's health condition effectively, and implementing any necessary public health measures, such as notifying medical staff or relevant health authorities. This structured approach reflects a commitment to upholding public health standards and ensuring the well-being of the entire inmate population.

While notifying the inmate's family or providing educational resources about the disease may seem supportive, these actions do not directly address the immediate health risk or adhere to the proper medical procedures necessary in this context. Similarly, assigning the inmate to solitary confinement without following established healthcare protocols could be inappropriate and might lead to further complications. Thus, the focus on healthcare protocols is essential in managing the situation appropriately and effectively.