From training to the work of forensic nurses in the Brazilian prison system

Objective: To analyze the perception of forensic nurses about their work in the Brazilian prison system and the impact of nursing education on the development of forensic science skills in this context. Method: Qualitative, exploratory research with national coverage, conducted between April and May 2023 with 22 nurses specializing in forensic nursing, through in-depth semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Results: Three thematic categories emerged: “Training of nurses to work in the prison system,” “Nursing care provided to persons deprived of liberty,” and “Organization of services for the practice of forensic nursing”. Conclusion: Forensic nursing is a promising avenue for advances in prison care. There is an urgent need to reassess academic training, the care provided in this environment, and the working conditions faced by professionals daily to promote effective and humane forensic nursing practice within prisons.