RN - Correctional Health

Registered Nurse

The Registered Nurse (RN) plans and provides comprehensive nursing care. This includes executing orders from Licensed Independent Providers, dispensing and administering medications, and assisting with examinations and treatment of patients. Nursing and supervisory techniques are applied in the care and treatment of inmates/residents. All technical and clinical procedures must be performed within the scope of education and licensure. Nursing skills are applied in the area and treatment of inmates/residents.

Attend sick calls with the physician to see inmates/residents. Prepare a list of inmates/residents to be examined and prepare the examining room and equipment. Operate pill calls, dispense medication, and document as required by applicable policies and procedures. Call Licensed Independent Providers for medication and treatment orders and other emergencies. Examine and assess new inmates/residents with illnesses or injuries. Refer inmates/residents to the emergency room or other appropriate healthcare facilities as required by their condition.

Perform emergency procedures as needed and notify the Licensed Independent Provider for treatment orders. Assist in coordinating professional medical services provided by contract personnel and address their needs. Monitor inmate/resident inpatient hospitalizations for early releases whenever appropriate. Provide guidance, supervision, and monitoring of nursing care provided by licensed vocational/practical nursing staff and non-licensed medical staff. Maintain a good working relationship with facility staff, nursing staff, contract providers, and outside provider agencies.

Utilize established policies and procedures in making decisions, applying sound independent judgment when needed. Regularly evaluate the provision of medical services to prevent inappropriate use or duplication of those services. Maintain absolute security and confidentiality of all medical records. Assist with the review of medical files to determine if all provided services are documented. Closely monitor all potential catastrophic illnesses.

Audit pharmacy use for adherence to formulary as directed or required. Comply with all applicable pharmacy laws, especially those covering controlled substances. Observe and record inmate/resident behavior. Inspect the medical unit for items that could be used as contraband by inmates/residents. Securely store or safely dispose of supplies and equipment. Provide health counseling and health education on an individual or group basis as required.

Assist in preparing and maintaining a variety of standard narrative, statistical, summary, and operational records, reports, and logs. Read, analyze, comprehend, and interpret medical and technical procedures, governmental regulations, and legal documents. Review, process, and respond to lawsuits, attending court hearings when necessary. Facilitate the accreditation of the medical program by providing the required level of efficiency and approved medical services.

Prepare and disseminate safety and accident reports as required by policies and procedures. Take appropriate action in cases of serious and unusual incidents and emergencies.