Correctional Nurse

Job Summary
As a Correctional Nurse, you will provide essential support and care to incarcerated individuals while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security.

Principal Accountabilities
The following duties are typical for this classification, but bear in mind they are illustrative only. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address the needs and changing practices of the agency.
• Patient Care: Assist in providing direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses or other healthcare professionals. This includes administering medications, monitoring vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, and ensuring patient comfort and safety.
• Medical Procedures: Assist healthcare professionals in performing medical procedures such as wound care, injections, specimen collection, and basic laboratory tests. Adhere to infection control protocols and maintain accurate documentation of procedures.
• Emergency Response: Respond promptly to medical emergencies and provide immediate assistance, including CPR and first aid, as required. Follow established protocols and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.
• Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, including medical histories, treatments provided, and observations. Ensure confidentiality of patient information and adhere to legal and ethical standards.
• Medication Management: Assist in medication administration, ensuring compliance with prescribed dosages and schedules. Adhere to medication storage and security protocols and report any medication discrepancies or concerns promptly.
• Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate effectively with the healthcare team, including nurses, physicians, and other staff members, to ensure coordinated and comprehensive patient care. Communicate any changes in patient condition or concerns to the appropriate healthcare professionals. Works as part of a health care team to assess patient needs, plans and modifies care, and implements interventions.
• Safety and Security: Adhere to all security protocols and maintain a safe and secure environment within the correctional facility. Follow established guidelines for handling potentially dangerous or violent situations, ensuring personal and patient safety.
• Compliance and Regulations: Follow all applicable policies, procedures, and regulations related to correctional healthcare, including HIPAA guidelines, infection control protocols, and state/federal regulations.

Experience & Education
• Associate’s degree in nursing required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Current state licensure required;
• Registered nurse (RN) designation preferred;
• Previous corrections experience preferred;

Knowledge & Skills
• Knowledge of basic nursing principles, medical terminology, and patient care procedures.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and maintain composure in a correctional environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and holidays, as required by the facility.
• Must be available to work various schedules as shifts rotate.
• Ability to pass post -job-offer medical exam, drug screen, and background checks.
• Equipment (machines, tools, devices) used in performing only the essential functions may include computer and related equipment, calculator, copier, fax machine, telephone, radio, firearms, handcuffs, waist and leg restraints, turn cranks on manual doors, tear gas canisters and weapons, VCR cameras, various locking systems, dolly, tractor, trailer, and automobiles.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment
• Environment: Conditions include working inside and outside, working around machines with moving parts and moving objects, radiant and electrical energy, working closely with others, working alone, working protracted or irregular hours, excessive heat, cold, humidity, dampness and chill, dry atmosphere, excessive or intermittent noise, constant noise, dust, fumes, smoke, gases, grease, oils, slippery or uneven walking surfaces, working at heights, working on ladders or scaffolding, using chemical agents, and traveling by car, van, bus, and airplane.

• Physical: Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, push, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above the shoulder, grasp, pull, bend repeatedly, climb stairs, steps, and ladders, identify colors, hear with aid, see, write, count, read, speak, analyze, alphabetize, lift and carry 50 lbs. and over, perceive depth, operate a motor vehicle, operate motor equipment, perform tactile discernment, and restrain assaultive persons.

Travel
• Travel will vary with the assignment.

Disclaimer
The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Salary : $65,000