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 providers in examinations and treatment of patients. Nursing and supervisory techniques are applied in the care, treatment, and referrals of inmates/residents. The RN performs all technical and clinical procedures within the scope of education and licensure. Appropriate nursing skills are applied in the care and treatment of inmates/residents.

Attendance is required at sick call with a physician to examine inmates/residents. The RN prepares a list of inmates/residents to be examined and prepares the examining room and equipment. Responsibilities also include operating pill call, dispensing medication, and documenting as required by applicable policies and procedures. Communication with licensed independent providers for medication and treatment orders, as well as emergencies, is essential.

The RN examines and assesses new inmates/residents with illnesses or injuries. Referrals to emergency rooms or other appropriate healthcare facilities are made as required by their condition. Emergency procedures are performed as needed, and licensed independent providers are notified for treatment orders. Assistance is provided in coordinating professional medical services offered by contract personnel to ensure their needs are met.

Monitoring inmate/resident inpatient hospitalizations for early releases is part of the job. Guidance, supervision, and monitoring of nursing care provided by licensed vocational/practical nursing staff and non-licensed medical staff is a key responsibility. Maintaining a good working relationship with facility staff, nursing staff, contract providers, and outside agency personnel is necessary. Established corporate and facility policies and procedures are utilized in decision-making while using sound independent judgment.

Regular evaluations of medical service provision are conducted to prevent inappropriate service use or duplication. Absolute security and confidentiality of all medical records must be maintained. The RN assists in the review of medical files to ensure all provided services are documented. Close monitoring of all potential catastrophic illnesses is required. Pharmacy use is audited for adherence to formulary as directed or required.

Compliance with all applicable pharmacy laws, especially regarding controlled substances, is necessary. Observation and recording of inmate/resident behavior is conducted. Inspections of the medical unit for items that could be used as contraband are performed, with secure storage or safe disposal of supplies and equipment. Health counseling and education are provided on an individual or group basis as required. Assistance is provided to prepare and maintain a variety of standard records, reports, and logs using appropriate grammar.

Medical and technical procedures, governmental regulations, and various documents are read, analyzed, comprehended, and interpreted. Processing and responding to lawsuits is a part of the job, with attendance at court hearings when necessary. Facilitation of accreditation requirements of the medical program is undertaken by providing the appropriate level of medical services. Safety and accident reports are prepared and disseminated as required by policies and procedures.

Appropriate action is taken in cases of serious and unusual incidents and emergencies.

Benefits include: medical, dental & vision insurance; free and unlimited continuing education units (CEUs); 24/7 dedicated Care Line and clinical liaison support; personalized career consultant and "single point of contact" service; industry-leading pay rates, loyalty rewards & referral bonuses; free tax return assistance for travelers; 401(k) Retirement Plan;
Health Savings Account (HSA); disability insurance (short-term and long-term); life and AD&D insurance; paid sick leave (where required by applicable state or local law); supplemental insurance plans; identity theft protection; pet insurance; employee wellness programs; employee assistance program (EAP); and career growth and professional development opportunities.