If correctional officers are to safeguard inmates and avoid charges of negligence, they must:

Safeguarding inmates and minimizing the risk of negligence is fundamentally about ensuring that their medical needs are addressed appropriately. Seeking medical assistance from trained professionals is a critical component of this responsibility, as correctional officers may encounter situations where an inmate requires immediate medical attention. By ensuring that trained professionals are brought in to evaluate and treat health-related issues, officers contribute to a safer environment for inmates and reduce the likelihood of claims of negligence against the facility.

Failure to seek appropriate medical treatment when needed can lead to serious consequences, including worsening health conditions for inmates and potential legal repercussions for the facility and officers involved. Therefore, recognizing when to involve medical personnel is essential for maintaining the health and safety of the inmate population and fulfilling the duty of care that correctional officers owe to those in their custody.

While following standard procedures, communicating with inmates, and documenting all interactions are indeed important practices in a correctional setting, prioritizing medical needs through professional intervention is foundational in preventing negligence claims related to health issues among inmates.