Registered Nurse / Charge

Position Overview

The RN Charge Nurse is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare throughout the facility. This role oversees all on-site medical services and acts as a key liaison between CorrHealth and Detention Administration, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration. Registered Nurses (RNs) deliver comprehensive nursing care to incarcerated individuals, including assessment, diagnosis, care planning, treatment, and evaluation. They also collaborate with the broader healthcare team to promote the maintenance and restoration of health. Like all correctional facility staff, the RN is responsible for supporting the security and safety of the institution.

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Essential Responsibilities

• Lead and support facility Nursing and EMS staff, including onboarding, training, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions.

• Ensure implementation and compliance with facility healthcare policies and procedures.

• Conduct health assessments on new intakes, initiate medical records, and document special needs or care plans.

• Coordinate with subcontracted service providers such as pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, and specialists.

• Oversee and evaluate services delivered by both contractors and clinical personnel.

• Respond to daily medical concerns and emergency situations involving patients.

• Administer prescribed medications and treatments according to physician orders.

• Prepare examination rooms and equipment; assist providers as needed during medical exams.

• Apply sound pharmacological practices in handling and documenting medication and IV therapies.

• Maintain IV lines and manage IV therapy when necessary.

• Meet regularly with the Health Services Administrator (HSA) to review and improve patient care; serve as Acting Supervisor in the HSA’s absence, with authority to delegate assignments.

• Understand and follow all emergency response protocols, including triage procedures and written emergency plans.

• Capable of providing CPR guidance and administering care during emergencies, including the use of AEDs if trained.

• Competently operate standard medical equipment such as AEDs, EKGs, blood pressure monitors, glucometers, Dopplers, and pulse oximeters.

• Use critical thinking to assess problems and develop effective solutions.

• Appropriately delegate tasks to licensed practical nurses and other support staff.

• Educate patients on health maintenance, hygiene, diet, and disease prevention.

• Participate in on-call rotations as required.

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Minimum Qualifications

• At least two (2) years of nursing experience in a supervisory or leadership role.

• Prior experience in long-term care (LTC) nursing is preferred.

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program approved by the state accrediting agency.

• Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license—must be maintained.

• AED certification—must remain current.

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Preferred Experience

• Correctional healthcare experience is desirable but not required.

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Key Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate with coworkers, facility personnel, and patients.

• High level of comprehension and reasoning skills.

• Excellent problem-solving and organizational abilities.

• Proficient in using computers and adaptable to learning site-specific software.

• Skilled in using medical equipment safely and effectively.

• Committed to maintaining confidentiality and respecting the dignity of all patients.

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Employment Requirements

• Maintain all required certifications, licenses, and educational credentials.

• Hold current CPR/BLS certification and a valid TB test (within one year).

• Follow all facility and company policies, including those outlined in the Employee Handbook.

• Willingness to work overtime and support coworkers when needed.

• Ensure the confidentiality and protection of all patient health information in compliance with HIPAA.

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Security Requirements

• Must pass a background check and drug screening (if applicable).

• Obtain and maintain facility-specific security clearance as a condition of employment.

• Complete security training and orientation according to facility safety procedures.

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Physical and Mental Demands

This role regularly requires the ability to:

• Move throughout the facility, including climbing stairs and navigating confined areas.

• Physically position oneself to access and treat patients in various settings.

• Communicate clearly and accurately in person and over the phone.

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Work Environment

The RN Charge Nurse works inside a correctional facility and may be exposed to risk factors such as interactions with inmates and exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Strict adherence to security protocols is required to minimize risk and maintain safety.

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Additional Requirements

Employees must comply with all current and applicable State, Federal, and Local laws, regulations, court orders, and administrative directives, as well as CorrHealth and facility-specific policies. This includes adherence to professional standards established by organizations such as the ACA and NCCHC. All interactions must reflect professionalism, respect, and dignity for coworkers, inmates, and facility partners. Inappropriate or disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.

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