Registered Nurse / Nights / Correctional Health

Position Overview

Registered Nurses (RNs) deliver comprehensive nursing care to inmates, including assessment, nursing diagnosis, care planning, implementation, and evaluation of patients’ medical conditions. RNs collaborate with healthcare team members to support the maintenance or improvement of patient health. Additionally, as part of the correctional institution staff, the RN shares responsibility for maintaining facility security.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess health status of new inmates, initiate medical records, and identify special needs.

• Respond promptly to daily medical concerns and emergencies.

• Administer prescribed medications and treatments as medically indicated.

• Prepare medical equipment, patient records, and examination rooms; assist providers as needed.

• Follow best practices for medication preparation, administration, documentation, and IV therapy management.

• Maintain IV therapy when required.

• Collaborate regularly with the Health Services Administrator (HSA) to review patient care.

• May serve as Charge Nurse or Acting Supervisor in the HSA’s absence, overseeing staff assignments.

• Remain knowledgeable of emergency protocols and act according to triage guidelines.

• Provide CPR instruction and lead during CPR emergencies; operate AED equipment when trained.

• Competently use standard medical equipment such as AEDs, EKGs, blood pressure monitors, oxygen delivery systems, sterilization tools, glucometers, Dopplers, and pulse oximeters.

• Apply critical thinking to analyze problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions.

• Delegate appropriate tasks to lower-licensed personnel.

• Educate patients on nutrition, hygiene, and prevention of chronic illnesses.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Graduate of an accredited professional nursing program approved by the state licensing board at the time of completion.

• Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse license; must maintain licensure.

Additional Information

• Experience in correctional healthcare is preferred but not required.

• This description does not encompass all duties; responsibilities may evolve without notice.

Competencies

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with staff, administration, and patients.

• Excellent comprehension and reasoning abilities.

• Well-organized and detail-oriented.

• Proficient with computers and able to learn various software systems.

• Ability to safely and correctly use standard medical equipment.

• Demonstrates respect for inmate dignity and confidentiality.

Employment Requirements

• Maintain all certifications, licenses, and education relevant to the role.

• Hold current CPR/BLS certification.

• Have a current TB test (within the past year).

• Follow all facility policies, procedures, and the Employee Handbook.

• Willingness to assist colleagues, work overtime as needed, and serve as a resource.

• Maintain confidentiality and security of health records in compliance with HIPAA.

Security Requirements

• Pass background check and pre-employment drug screening as applicable.

• Obtain and maintain security clearance as required.

• Complete security training and orientation related to facility safety.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Ability to remain stationary and move throughout the facility, including climbing stairs.

• Ability to position oneself in various spaces as needed.

• Clear communication skills for interacting with patients and staff.

• Strong observational skills across various distances.

• Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful situations.

• Frequently lift and transport objects weighing up to 50 pounds.