JAIL - RN NURSE

Job Purpose

This position performs the duties of nurse in the jail facility, to provide initial screening, care, and application of medications to person(s) in custody under the direction of the Medical Director and Public Health Director, with record keeping of services. The role is office‑based, requires meeting deadlines, and involves a high level of public contact ranging from congenial to confrontational. It is a position that does not require certification by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).

Number of Employees Reporting to This Position: 0

• Make initial and ongoing assessments of the inmate’s needs; identifying changes in physical and emotional parameters.
• Provide an initial health assessment on all inmates after ten days of incarceration.
• Continually assess mental health status of all inmates, identifying changes in emotional parameters.
• Triage patient care and make necessary outside referrals to ensure their welfare.
• Assess and monitor all drug/alcohol detox patients for medical stability or change in status.
• Assess and act upon all inmate medical requests within forty‑eight hours.
• Document all information related to the assessment and needs of the inmate; including all contacts and recommendations from the medical provider.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of all nursing interventions in a timely manner.
• Maintain the medical record which includes filing all booking sheets, medication sheets, outside records, laboratory, and diagnostic results. (OCHIN)
• Maintain inventory of all medical supplies, check expiration dates, clean and sterilize all durable medical goods.
• Maintain inventory of all over‑the‑counter medications; check expiration dates and order when necessary.
• Maintain an adequate supply of medications for all inmates as ordered through the medical provider. Verify correct medications are received for inmates and supply is only for what is needed until the inmate’s expected release.
• Document all medication to be administered on the medication administration record. Recopy the medication administration record twice.
• Dispose of unused medications correctly, or return to pharmacy for credit if not used.
• Monitor the biohazard waste box and call for pick‑up as necessary.
• Provide transfer of medical information to all inmates transferred to other correctional institutions.
• Release records to other agencies only with prior written consent for Crook County inmates.
• Maintain confidentiality, quality of services, and respect all individual beliefs.
• Maintain delegation of the medications and treatments provided to the inmates by the correction deputies as directed by the Oregon State Board of Nursing and Nurse Practice Act. This includes initial and periodic training.
• Use appropriate resources to keep abreast of current recommendations for programs, services, and education that will foster the jail nursing position.
• Represent the Crook County Inmate Health Services Program to the community and other agencies.
• Communicate with correction deputies any pertinent information using the pass on log.
• Communicate to the Medical Director any problems or concerns that the Medical Director may determine next level of care.
• Keep Jail Supervisor updated on any potential problems with inmates.
• Communicate with pharmacy regarding any medical issues.
• Attend meetings as requested.
• Ensure all doors and medical cabinets remain locked at all times.
• Work with high‑risk inmates who are brought to the medical room, handcuffed; correction deputies will remain in attendance as nurse is not to be alone with an inmate.

• Ability to use a computer keyboard and mouse.
• Ability to use a personal computer and related software, printer, copier, facsimile, multi‑line telephone.
• Ability to use general office software including word‑processing, spreadsheet and database programs.
• Ability to push/pull objects, lift objects off the ground, from elevated surfaces and carry up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to work with confidential data and reports regarding legal matters on a regular basis.
• Ability to sit and stand alternately for extended periods of time.
• Ability to bend over at the waist, kneel, reach, twist at…