A nurse-led satellite clinic initiative for STI testing in an Australian correctional center: a qualitative study

Abstract This exploratory study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators of a nurse-led satellite pilot clinic to improve sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, treatment, and prevention in an Australian male correctional center. A descriptive qualitative research design was utilized to inform program evaluation. Qualitative data were collected from nurses via semi-structured interviews, and from incarcerated participants who attended the satellite clinic through open-ended satisfaction survey responses. Data were analyzed using deductive thematic analysis guided by the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR). Six major themes, aligned with the five CFIR domains were developed: (1) Meeting the needs of incarcerated people (outer setting domain); (2) Adaption based on needs; (implementation process domain); (3) Nursing staff motivation (individuals domain); (4) Incarcerated population’s desire to be healthy (individuals domain); (5) Shared vision (inner setting domain); and (6) Efficacy of clinics due to the satellite method (innovation domain). Barriers and facilitators raised by the two participant groups in this study identified a range of key recommendations: (1) Additional sexual health education; (2) Hiring appropriately skilled clinical nurses; (3) Collaborating with policy makers; (4) Continuing intra-organizational cooperation and adaptability; and (5) Additional days, advertising and modes of delivery. These recommendations highlight the requirement for these clinics to meet the needs of the incarcerated population.