Inmates Care: Computer-Based Training for Geriatric and End-of-Life Care in Prisons

The growing aged and dying incarcerated population increases demands on corrections health care. People who are incarcerated can assist in care delivery; however, currently, their training is typically face-to-face, home grown, and variable in content and duration. Six focus groups conducted with peer caregivers (PCs) (n = 12) and staff (n = 15) identified priority training topics. Three prototype modules (Standard Precautions; Loss and Grief; and Role of the Inmate Caregiver in the Final Hours) were developed in consultation with an advisory board. Face-to-face usability testing with (n = 20) PCs and staff confirmed contextual relevance and feasibility of the Inmates Care training. The mean system usability score for all participant segments was 86.5. Inmates Care holds promise to complement nurse-led training with a standardized e-training package.